On January 6, 2026, Turkish Airlines’ daily flight TK174 from Istanbul to Sydney, operated by an Airbus A350-900, offers a unique blend of comfort and service in its economy class. This journey, split into two legs via Kuala Lumpur, provides passengers with a seamless travel experience that highlights the airline’s commitment to quality.
The flight from Istanbul to Kuala Lumpur lasts 10 hours and 15 minutes, followed by a 7-hour and 25-minute journey to Sydney. This schedule allows travelers to enjoy a brief respite in Kuala Lumpur, where the aircraft is meticulously cleaned and prepared for the final leg to Australia.
Checking In and Boarding
Checking in at Frankfurt for a 7 a.m. connecting flight to Istanbul was a breeze, thanks to Turkish Airlines’ extensive network, which covers more countries than any other airline. The convenience of a single flight number and boarding pass simplifies the process, allowing passengers to focus on their journey.
Turkish Airlines does not have rights to carry passengers solely between Malaysia and Australia, which means all travelers on this route are headed to Sydney, ensuring a smooth transition through Kuala Lumpur.
The In-Flight Experience
Seating and Comfort
The economy class seats on the A350-900 are designed for comfort, with an 18-inch width and 32-inch pitch, providing ample legroom. The aircraft’s modern interior, with its navy and red color scheme, enhances the overall travel experience.
Entertainment and Technology
Turkish Airlines is renowned for its in-flight entertainment, offering a wide range of options on a 13.3-inch touchscreen. From wildlife documentaries to blockbuster films, passengers can enjoy a variety of content, all while having access to USB ports and power outlets for personal devices.
Culinary Delights
The culinary offerings on Turkish Airlines are a highlight, with meals that reflect the airline’s Turkish heritage. The first leg features a “chicken burger” with a creative twist, while the second meal includes traditional Turkish dishes like juicy mince kofte. However, the catering from Malaysia falls short, with a less impressive breakfast and panini.
Service and Amenities
The cabin crew, known for their courteous and friendly demeanor, provide exceptional service, including amenity packs that are rare in economy class. This thoughtful touch enhances the overall travel experience, making passengers feel valued and cared for.
Sustainability and Future Plans
Turkish Airlines is committed to becoming carbon-neutral by 2050, with plans to expand the use of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) on new routes. This initiative reflects the airline’s dedication to environmental responsibility.
By 2050, Turkish Airlines aims to achieve carbon neutrality, expanding its use of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) to new routes.
Pricing and Verdict
With return fares from Sydney to Istanbul starting at approximately $1800, Turkish Airlines offers competitive pricing, especially for flights to European cities with high competition. This makes it an attractive option for travelers seeking quality service at a reasonable cost.
A friend recently inquired about the airline, asking, “I’ve just booked them for Christmas, have I made a good choice?” My enthusiastic response was, “Excellent move! Won’t regret it.” Turkish Airlines’ recent expansion into the Australian market has been well-received, earning accolades such as Skytrax’s Best Airline in Europe award in 2025.
The airline’s planned non-stop flights from Sydney to Istanbul promise to make the journey even more convenient, further enhancing its appeal. Despite a minor setback with the panini, the overall experience is highly commendable.
Our rating out of five: ★★★★½
The writer traveled as a guest of Turkish Airlines. For more information, visit turkishairlines.com.
For additional insights on air travel and sustainability, see iata.org. Note that fares are based on availability for travel three months from the time of publication and are subject to change.
