Direct (nonstop) flights from London to Istanbul
2 airlines fly nonstop from Heathrow (LHR) to Istanbul Airport (IST). It's 1,550 miles (2,494 km), about 3h 55m in the air. Operated by British Airways, Turkish Airlines.
British Airways
Turkish Airlines
Route data last updated: May 27, 2026
Airlines with non-stop flights
BA
British Airways
TK
Turkish Airlines
Alternative Routes
Other ways to fly from London to Istanbul with one stop · direct emits 262 kg CO₂ per passenger
Looking for the return flight?
IST → LHR: Flights from Istanbul to LondonOther direct flights from London
Direct flights from Istanbul (IST)
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the direct flight from London to Istanbul?
A nonstop flight from London (LHR) to Istanbul (IST) takes approximately 3 hours and 55 minutes. The distance is 1,550 miles (2,494 km).
Which airlines fly nonstop from London to Istanbul?
2 airlines: British Airways, Turkish Airlines.
Is there a nonstop flight from London to Istanbul?
Yes. 2 airlines: British Airways, Turkish Airlines.
How far is London from Istanbul?
The flight distance from London to Istanbul is 1,550 miles (2,494 km), measured as the great-circle (shortest air) distance. That's roughly the same distance as New York to Miami.
What is the time difference between London and Istanbul?
Istanbul is 2 hours ahead of London. (Europe/London vs Europe/Istanbul.)
What type of aircraft flies from London to Istanbul?
At 3h 55m, this route typically uses narrow-body or mid-range jets — Boeing 737 MAX or Airbus A320neo. Varies by airline.
Do I need a visa to travel from United Kingdom to Turkiye?
Depends on your passport. Check with the Turkiye embassy or an official visa portal before booking — requirements change.
What is the carbon footprint of a flight from London to Istanbul?
Roughly 262 kg CO2 per passenger one-way. That's about the same as driving 1,310 km.
Is the return flight from Istanbul to London also nonstop?
Yes — nonstop flights run both ways. Flight time may differ slightly due to wind patterns.
When is the cheapest time to fly from London to Istanbul?
Midweek flights (Tue/Wed) outside holiday peaks are usually cheapest. For long-haul, booking 2-3 months out tends to help. Use "Check Prices" above to compare.
How early should I arrive at Heathrow for this flight?
3 hours before departure for international flights. You need time for check-in, security, and immigration.