Cheap Flights from Johannesburg to Istanbul Starting at $306

More than 5 airlines operate flights from Johannesburg to Istanbul, including Turkish Airlines, Qatar Airways, Safair, Etihad Airways, and Ethiopian Airlines. This is a popular route, so passengers can choose tickets based on budget and preferences. Ticket prices start from $306, and our service lets you instantly compare all options. The variety of offers simplifies planning: you can choose budget fares or more comfortable options with baggage included or extra services. We help you find the best deals so your trip is cost-efficient.

O.R. Tambo International (JNB) is Johannesburg’s primary international gateway and the country’s busiest airport, typically serving full-service carriers and many long-haul flights alongside some low-cost operators. Located about 22–25 km northeast of the city centre, travel times can be roughly 25–45 minutes by Gautrain or taxi depending on traffic; the Gautrain offers a fast link to Sandton and central Johannesburg with fares usually in the mid-range for public transit, while metered taxis and app-based rides can be quicker but costlier. Pros: extensive international connections, modern facilities and frequent transfer options; cons: can be crowded at peak times and transit times vary with road congestion. Lanseria International (HLA) is a smaller, more budget-friendly airport northwest of Johannesburg that typically handles regional flights and low-cost carriers, often offering simpler check-in and shorter queues than the main hub. It sits approximately 30–35 km from the city centre, with transfer times commonly around 35–60 minutes by car; shuttle services and private transfers are the main public options and fares tend to be modest but variable. Pros: quicker processing and easier short-haul connections; cons: fewer scheduled international services and more limited public transport links compared with O.R. Tambo.

Istanbul Airport (IST) is Turkey’s main international hub and typically handles the majority of long-haul and full-service carrier traffic, with many Star Alliance and Turkish Airlines connections. It sits on the city’s European side, about 35–50 km from central districts depending on route; travel to Taksim or Sultanahmet can take roughly 40–70 minutes by taxi or 60–90 minutes using the Havaist airport coach (fares usually range from modest flat rates to mid-level taxi fares). A long-term rail link is being expanded, while taxis and rideshares are widely available. Pros: modern facilities and extensive international options; cons: longer transfers to central tourist areas and occasional congestion.

The cost of a one-way flight from Johannesburg to Istanbul ranges from $346 (February 2026) to $473 (December 2025). On average, the ticket price is about $378–$386.