Turkish Airlines has successfully operated its first direct flight from Istanbul to Sydney via Kuala Lumpur. Today’s landing at Sydney Airport marks a significant event for Australian air travel and Sydney’s broader global connectivity.
This new route represents a major expansion of international travel options for Australian passengers and demonstrates the growing importance of long-haul international connections.
Four Weekly Services
The airline will initially operate four weekly services, connecting Australian travelers to an expansive network of over 350 destinations across Türkiye, Europe, and beyond.
This comprehensive route network offers unprecedented travel flexibility, allowing passengers to seamlessly explore multiple continents with a single carrier.
By June 2025, the route will expand to five weekly services, reflecting strong anticipated demand and the growing interest in international travel between Australia and Europe.
Upgrade to Ultra-Long Range Aircraft
Looking ahead, Turkish Airlines has ambitious plans to revolutionize this route. The airline intends to introduce ultra-long range aircraft in 2026. This could potentially transform the current route into Australia’s first non-stop service between Sydney and Istanbul.
This future development represents a significant technological and logistical achievement in aviation, promising to dramatically reduce travel times and enhance passenger convenience.
Sydney Airport’s 50th Airline Partner
Sydney Airport CEO Scott Charlton celebrated the arrival, welcoming Turkish Airlines as their 50th airline partner. “This launch strengthens our international network and provides passengers with enhanced connectivity to Europe,” Charlton said.
He emphasized the airport’s commitment to expanding global connections and offering travelers more diverse travel options.
The economic implications of this new route are substantial. Destination NSW estimates the service will generate over $53 million in visitor expenditure and support more than 290 local jobs in the first year alone.
This projection underscores the significant economic impact of international air routes, extending beyond mere transportation to stimulate tourism, business travel, and local economic growth.
Turkish Airlines Longest Flight Service
Turkish Airlines CEO Bilal Ekşi described the launch as a historic moment, emphasizing the airline’s commitment to global connectivity.
“This represents our longest flight path and our continued expansion in the Australian market,” Ekşi noted. The launch reflects the airline’s strategic vision of bridging continents and providing world-class travel experiences.
NSW Minister for Jobs and Tourism John Graham praised the new connection. He underlined how the route was facilitated by a financial incentive from the Minns Government.
“This is about creating jobs, driving economic growth, and enhancing our tourism potential,” Graham explained. The government’s proactive approach demonstrates a commitment to supporting international aviation and tourism infrastructure.
Sydney as a Premier Hub
With this launch, Sydney Airport reinforces its position as Australia’s premier international gateway, now hosting two European carriers and maintaining a 38% share of Australia-Europe air traffic. This achievement highlights the airport’s strategic importance in connecting Australia to global markets and travel destinations.
The inaugural flight connects cultures, economies, and opportunities between Australia and Europe.
Travelers can now look forward to experiencing Turkish Airlines’ renowned hospitality, exploring new destinations, and enjoying more convenient international travel options.
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