January 6, 2026 — 4:00am
In the early hours of January 6, 2026, passengers aboard Turkish Airlines flight TK174 embarked on a journey from Istanbul to Sydney, marking another chapter in the airline’s ambitious expansion into the Australian market. This daily route, operated by an Airbus A350-900, promises a unique blend of comfort and Turkish hospitality, setting a new standard for long-haul economy travel.
Turkish Airlines, renowned for flying to more countries than any other airline, offers this route with a seamless connection through Kuala Lumpur. The total flight time is approximately 17 hours and 40 minutes, split between a 10-hour, 15-minute leg from Istanbul to Kuala Lumpur and a subsequent 7-hour, 25-minute journey to Sydney. This service, however, is not just about reaching a destination; it’s about the experience along the way.
Seamless Check-In and Boarding
Passengers can check in effortlessly at their point of origin, like Frankfurt, for a connecting flight to Istanbul. This convenience is part of Turkish Airlines’ commitment to providing a hassle-free travel experience, allowing travelers to board in Kuala Lumpur with just a single boarding pass. The airline’s policy restricts carrying passengers solely between Malaysia and Australia, ensuring that the service remains dedicated to those traveling the full route to Sydney.
Baggage and Loyalty Perks
Depending on the economy fare category booked, passengers can check luggage ranging from 23kg to 40kg, with all fares including a cabin bag of up to eight kilograms. Additionally, Turkish Airlines’ loyalty program, Miles & Smiles, offers benefits as part of the Star Alliance network, which includes major airlines like Air New Zealand and Singapore Airlines.
In-Flight Comfort and Entertainment
The Airbus A350-900 fleet, with an average age of just 2.4 years, features 18-inch wide seats with a 32-inch pitch, providing ample comfort for long-haul flights. The cabin’s smart navy interior with red accents adds a touch of elegance to the journey. Entertainment options are plentiful, with a 13.3-inch touchscreen offering a range of content from wildlife documentaries to blockbuster films, complemented by USB ports and power points for personal devices.
Exceptional Service and Dining
The service onboard is characterized by the attentiveness of the crew, who provide amenity packs—a rarity in economy class today. The dining experience is a highlight, with meals that reflect Turkish Airlines’ culinary heritage. On the first leg, a ‘chicken burger’ is served with a creative twist, while the second meal features traditional Turkish kofte. However, the catering on the second leg from Malaysia leaves room for improvement, with less impressive options like a mushroom omelette and a chicken panini.
Sustainability and Future Prospects
Looking ahead, Turkish Airlines is committed to sustainability, aiming to be carbon-neutral by 2050 and expanding the use of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) across new routes. The airline’s efforts in this area are part of a broader industry trend towards more environmentally friendly operations.
In addition to its environmental initiatives, Turkish Airlines offers a unique stopover program, providing two free nights in a 4-star Istanbul hotel for passengers with extended layovers. This initiative not only enhances the travel experience but also encourages exploration of Istanbul’s rich cultural heritage.
Competitive Pricing and Market Impact
With return fares from Sydney to Istanbul starting at approximately $1800, Turkish Airlines is competitively priced, particularly for routes to European cities. This pricing strategy is part of the airline’s broader effort to establish a strong foothold in the Australian market, having commenced direct flights to Sydney and Melbourne in late 2024.
The airline’s recent accolades, including winning Skytrax’s Best Airline in Europe award for the 10th time in 2025, underscore its commitment to excellence. As Turkish Airlines prepares to launch non-stop flights from Sydney to Istanbul later this year, passengers can look forward to even more convenient travel options.
“Excellent move! Won’t regret,” was my immediate reply to a friend curious about flying with Turkish Airlines for the holidays.
Overall, Turkish Airlines’ service on the Istanbul to Sydney route offers a compelling mix of comfort, service, and value, despite minor setbacks in catering. As the airline continues to expand its global reach, passengers can expect further enhancements to their travel experience.
Rating: ★★★★½
The writer flew as a guest of Turkish Airlines. For more information, visit turkishairlines.com.
