Cancellation and Delays of Sabiha Gökçen Airport Flights Due to Snow
The Turkish city of Istanbul is facing significant transportation challenges due to cold weather and heavy snowfall, with authorities announcing a 15% reduction in flight operations at Sabiha Gökçen International Airport on January 18 and 19, 2026.
In an official statement, the Sabiha Gökçen Airport Authority under the Presidency of Defense Industries explained that, based on the latest assessments from the General Directorate of Meteorology, flight operations will be reduced by 15% over the next two days due to snowy weather conditions in Istanbul.
Passengers are also advised to follow official updates for their flights via airline websites and call centers.
Meanwhile, AJet announced the cancellation of 38 departures and arrivals to and from the airport during the same period, aiming to ensure the safety of passengers and flight crews.
The weather conditions have also caused major delays in land and sea transportation, affecting daily life in the city and leading to noticeable disruptions in traffic and public transit.
Quick reader summary
The Turkish city of Istanbul is facing significant transportation challenges due to cold weather and heavy snowfall, with authorities announcing a 15% reduction in flight operations at Sabiha Gökçen International Airport on January 18 and 19, 2026. This update matters to travellers with European short-haul flights, connecting trips or pending bookings because it may affect planning, travel, public-service use or the next practical step a reader should take.
Why this update matters
The value of this story is not only the headline. Readers need to know who may be affected, whether the measure is final or still developing, and where to check the official version before acting on it.
What to do now
- Open your booking through the airline’s official website or app rather than relying only on social media posts.
- Check the email linked to your reservation for rebooking, refund or alternative-flight options.
- If you have a connecting itinerary, review the full journey and not only the cancelled or changed segment.
Official sources to check
- Lufthansa official website and flight status
- The airport or airline used for the booking
Frequently asked questions
Does this mean the measure is already in force?
Not always. Some stories report a measure already being applied, while others describe a proposal, transition period or expected change. Always check the implementation date in the official source.
Can I rely on this article alone for a legal, travel or financial decision?
No. This article is intended to explain the news context and practical implications, but it does not replace official guidance or qualified professional advice when the issue affects your legal status, booking or finances.
Editorial note: This update was editorially reviewed on July 11, 2026, with practical verification points added to help readers check the official source before taking action.
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