Turkish Airlines Set to Launch Flights to Australia: Istanbul-Melbourne Route First

Exciting news for travelers in Australia and beyond as Turkish Airlines prepares to announce the start of flights connecting Istanbul to Melbourne.

Chairman Ahmet Bolat will make the official announcement during a gala dinner event at Melbourne’s Crown Towers. While the initial flights may include a stopover in Singapore, Turkish Airlines has long-term plans to introduce non-stop routes between Istanbul and major Australian cities like Sydney and Melbourne.

The Istanbul-Australia Route:

Turkish Airlines is anticipated to operate three weekly flights initially, utilizing aircraft such as the Airbus A350 or Boeing 787. These planes feature around 30 flatbed business class seats, designed similarly to Singapore Airlines’ regional business class. Passengers can expect a Melbourne-Istanbul travel time of approximately 21 hours, including the stopover in Singapore. However, Turkish Airlines has aspirations to introduce direct flights in the future, once it acquires new generation ultra-long-range jets from Airbus or Boeing.

Expanding Turkish Airlines’ Network:

The launch of flights to Australia marks a significant milestone for Turkish Airlines, enabling the airline to tap into the untapped potential of the Australian market. With Istanbul serving as a strategic hub, passengers will have access to numerous convenient connections across Europe, the UK, and Africa. This opens up a world of possibilities for both business and leisure travelers.

Istanbul Stopovers:

Travelers who opt for stopovers at Istanbul Airport for a duration of six to 24 hours can take advantage of Turkish Airlines’ enticing stopover packages. These packages include options for guided city tours and a more comprehensive Stopover in Istanbul program, featuring complimentary stays of up to two nights in five-star hotels. Such offerings provide an excellent opportunity to explore the fascinating city, which straddles both Europe and Asia.

Superb Business Class Experience:

Turkish Airlines is renowned for its exceptional business class service, providing passengers with an elevated inflight experience. Gourmet meals, prepared by the airline’s talented Flying Chefs, offer a restaurant-quality dining experience. Business class seats on the A350 and Boeing 787 are arranged in a 1-2-1 configuration, ensuring privacy and direct aisle access for every passenger. The spacious cabin features an 18-inch video screen and complimentary inflight WiFi.

Miles&Smiles Elite Benefits:

Passengers who hold top-tier frequent flyer status with partner airlines, including Qantas, Emirates, Etihad Airways, and Oneworld and SkyTeam alliance members, can apply for a Turkish Airlines Miles&Smiles status match. This provides up to 12 months of Miles&Smiles Elite tier membership, granting access to exclusive perks such as lounge access, an increased checked luggage allowance, and priority lanes at Istanbul Airport.

The forthcoming launch of Turkish Airlines’ flights between Istanbul and Melbourne heralds an exciting era for travel between Turkey and Australia. Passengers can look forward to exceptional service, convenient connections, and future prospects of non-stop routes to major Australian cities. As Turkish Airlines expands its network, it continues to solidify its position as a leading airline in the global aviation industry.

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