While names like Ryanair, easyJet, and Wizz Air dominate Europe’s budget travel headlines, Corendon Airlines has quietly become one of the busiest carriers in the skies – and chances are, you’ve never even heard of it.
Who (or What) is Corendon Airlines?
Founded in 2005, Corendon Airlines is a Turkish-Dutch leisure airline that caters mostly to European holidaymakers heading to sun-soaked destinations. Operating out of bases in Turkey, Malta, and the Netherlands, the airline flies to more than 165 destinations across 65 countries – from coastal hotspots to lesser-known getaways.
Their core focus? Affordable, charter-style flights to popular tourist regions like Spain, Greece, Italy, Egypt, and beyond.
A Charter Giant in Disguise
You might not see Corendon logos splashed across jetways or in-flight magazines, but you’ve likely flown with them unknowingly. Many of their services are operated on behalf of major tour operators and travel agencies, especially from Germany, Belgium, and the Netherlands, making them a hidden workhorse in European air travel.
Despite their low public profile, Corendon Airlines transported more than 6 million passengers in 2024 alone – a number rivaling some better-known low-cost carriers.
Fleet and Experience
Corendon operates a modern, predominantly Boeing 737 fleet, with an emphasis on punctuality, comfort, and no-frills efficiency. Their aircraft are decked out in red and white livery, and they often feature routes to and from lesser-served airports – giving holidaymakers easy access to sunny destinations without the crowds.
While the onboard experience is relatively basic (as expected from a budget airline), their service is generally well-reviewed for reliability and value.
Why Haven’t You Heard of Them?
Unlike big-name carriers, Corendon doesn’t rely heavily on direct-to-consumer branding. Instead, it partners with tour operators and package holiday companies. So while you might book a holiday through a travel agency, your flight could quietly be operated by Corendon – making it a major airline that stays behind the scenes.
Final Word
Corendon Airlines may not be a household name, but with an expansive route network and millions of passengers every year, it’s one of Europe’s quiet success stories in the skies. If you’re heading off on a European break, don’t be surprised if you find yourself flying with the busiest airline you’ve never heard of.
