On January 6, 2026, a new chapter in long-haul travel unfolded as Turkish Airlines’ Airbus A350-900 embarked on its daily journey from Istanbul to Sydney, with a stopover in Kuala Lumpur. This flight, designated TK174, offers a unique experience in economy class, promising comfort and convenience for travelers heading to the farthest reaches of the globe.
Turkish Airlines, renowned for its expansive global reach, has crafted a seamless travel experience for passengers on this route. The flight, which begins in Istanbul, spans a total of 17 hours and 40 minutes, divided into two legs: a 10-hour, 15-minute journey to Kuala Lumpur, followed by a 7-hour, 25-minute flight to Sydney.
Seamless Check-In and Boarding
For travelers starting their journey in Frankfurt, Turkish Airlines offers a streamlined check-in process for connecting flights to Istanbul. This efficiency extends to the boarding process in Kuala Lumpur, where passengers reboard the same aircraft after a brief layover, allowing time for a quick refreshment.
Turkish Airlines operates under specific regulations on this route, as it does not hold rights to carry passengers solely between Malaysia and Australia. This means passengers are only transported through to their final destination, ensuring a smooth and uninterrupted journey.
Comfort and Amenities in Economy Class
The economy class on the Airbus A350-900 is designed with passenger comfort in mind. Seats are 18 inches wide with a pitch of 32 inches, offering ample legroom. The aircraft’s interior, featuring a smart navy color scheme with red accents, is part of a fleet with an average age of just 2.4 years, reflecting Turkish Airlines’ commitment to modernity and style.
Entertainment and Technology
Passengers are treated to a state-of-the-art entertainment system, boasting a 13.3-inch touchscreen display with a wide array of options, from wildlife documentaries to blockbuster films like “Mission: Impossible.” The inclusion of USB ports and other power points ensures that travelers can stay connected and entertained throughout their journey.
Service and Dining Experience
The cabin crew, known for their courteous and friendly demeanor, enhance the travel experience with thoughtful touches, such as amenity packs for economy passengers—a rarity among airlines today. The dining experience on board is equally impressive, with meals that reflect Turkish Airlines’ culinary heritage.
“Both meals are restaurant level in flavour and creativity,” reports a satisfied traveler, highlighting the airline’s dedication to quality.
While the first leg offers a delightful culinary experience, the second leg’s catering from Malaysia falls short of expectations, with a less impressive breakfast offering.
Sustainability and Additional Benefits
In line with global trends, Turkish Airlines is committed to sustainability, aiming to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050. The airline is expanding its use of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) across new routes, reflecting its dedication to environmental responsibility.
Moreover, Turkish Airlines offers a unique stopover program, providing passengers with two free nights in a 4-star Istanbul hotel, transforming a layover into a mini holiday and adding significant value to the travel experience.
Cost and Final Verdict
The cost of a return flight from Sydney to Istanbul in economy class starts at approximately $1800, with competitive pricing for other European destinations. This affordability, combined with the airline’s award-winning service, makes Turkish Airlines a compelling choice for travelers.
“If you haven’t heard much about Turkish Airlines (yet), it’s because they began flying their own planes into Sydney and Melbourne in late 2024,” notes an industry expert, underscoring the airline’s growing presence in the region.
As Turkish Airlines plans to introduce non-stop flights from Sydney to Istanbul, the journey will become even more appealing. Despite a minor setback with the in-flight catering, the overall experience remains highly commendable.
With a rating of ★★★★½, Turkish Airlines’ A350 economy class offers a blend of comfort, service, and value, ensuring a memorable journey from Istanbul to Sydney.
