January 6, 2026 — 5:00am
Turkish Airlines, renowned for its extensive global reach, offers a daily flight from Istanbul to Sydney, identified as flight TK174. This journey, operated by the modern Airbus A350-900, promises an intriguing experience in economy class, particularly for those seated in 16K, a window seat. The flight is split into two legs: Istanbul to Kuala Lumpur, lasting 10 hours and 15 minutes, followed by a 7-hour and 25-minute trip from Kuala Lumpur to Sydney.
The announcement comes as Turkish Airlines continues to expand its footprint, flying to more countries than any other airline. This particular route, which includes a seamless check-in process from Frankfurt, highlights the airline’s commitment to convenience and efficiency. Passengers can enjoy a brief respite in Kuala Lumpur before re-boarding the same aircraft, refreshed and ready for the final leg to Sydney.
Onboard Experience and Comfort
Turkish Airlines’ economy class offers a noteworthy level of comfort. The seats, measuring 18 inches in width and providing a pitch of 32 inches, are part of an A350-900 fleet with an average age of just 2.4 years. The interior design, featuring a smart navy palette with red accents, complements the modern amenities available to passengers.
Meanwhile, the airline’s entertainment system is a standout feature. Passengers have access to a 13.3-inch touchscreen display with a diverse selection of films and documentaries. The presence of USB ports and other power points ensures that travelers can stay connected throughout their journey.
Culinary Offerings and Service
The culinary experience onboard Turkish Airlines is a testament to its reputation as Turkey’s national flag carrier. During the first leg of the journey, passengers are treated to a unique ‘build-your-own’ chicken burger, complete with sautéed vegetables and dips. The second meal, a traditional Turkish dish of mince kofte with tomato bulgur and mung bean salad, showcases the airline’s commitment to offering restaurant-quality meals.
However, the second leg from Kuala Lumpur to Sydney presents a mixed experience. While the mushroom omelette is well-received, the breakfast box, featuring a chicken and Emmental panini, falls short of expectations. Despite this, the overall dining experience remains largely positive, bolstered by the attentive service provided by the cabin crew.
Loyalty and Sustainability Initiatives
As a member of the Star Alliance, Turkish Airlines offers the Miles & Smiles loyalty program, providing passengers with opportunities to earn and redeem miles across a wide network of partner airlines, including Air New Zealand and Singapore Airlines.
The airline is also committed to sustainability, aiming for carbon neutrality by 2050. It is actively expanding the use of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) on new routes, reflecting a broader industry trend towards more environmentally responsible operations.
Pricing and Verdict
With return fares from Sydney to Istanbul starting at approximately $1800, Turkish Airlines positions itself competitively within the market. Routes to other European cities, such as Rome and Paris, are available at even lower prices, highlighting the airline’s value proposition.
According to sources, Turkish Airlines began operating its own flights into Sydney and Melbourne in late 2024, transitioning from a previous codeshare arrangement. This strategic move has allowed Australian passengers to experience firsthand why the airline won Skytrax’s Best Airline in Europe award in 2025 for the tenth time.
The move represents a significant enhancement in travel options for Australians, with the promise of even more convenient journeys once non-stop flights from Sydney to Istanbul commence later this year. Despite minor culinary setbacks, the overall experience remains highly commendable.
★★★★½
The writer flew as a guest of Turkish Airlines. For more information, visit turkishairlines.com.
For more insights into air travel and sustainability, see iata.org. Please note that fares are based on those available for travel three months from the time of publication and are subject to change.
Flip Byrnes, who specializes in adventure and off-the-beaten-track travel, is both Sydney and Europe-based and loves unearthing unsung travel gems.
