Turkish Airlines heading back Down Under with new Sydney service

Turkish Airlines has announced it will launch flights to Sydney from December 4, adding a second Australian destination to the carrier’s global network.

The airline, which flies to more countries than any other, will operate four weekly flights to Australia’s largest city via Kuala Lumpur using an Airbus A350-900 aircraft.

This new route – which will eventually become a non-stop service from Istanbul to Sydney once the carrier receives delivery of new aircraft capable of flying direct to Australia – comes after Turkish Airlines launched flights to Melbourne in March this year.

While strengthening Turkish Airlines’ presence Down Under, this new route will also further reinforce ties between Türkiye and Australia, driving growth in tourism, trade, and cultural exchange.

Prof. Ahmet Bolat, Turkish Airlines’ Chairman of the Board and the Executive Committee, said: “We are happy to announce the launch of our Sydney route, which opens another chapter for us in the continent.

“This new route not only enhances our flight network but also reaffirms our commitment to our presence in Australia as we connect our guests to new opportunities and experiences with the comfort and hospitality of Turkish Airlines.

“Sydney will also be our first destination in Australia to have non-stop flights when we receive the aircraft capable of making the journey in a single leg.”

John Graham, New South Wales (NSW) Minister for Jobs and Tourism, said he was thrilled about Turkish Airlines flying to Sydney, giving European travellers direct access to the state’s world-class visitor experiences.

“The NSW Government has worked closely with Sydney Airport and Turkish Airlines to secure this new service. Sydney is the gateway to Australia and supporting this new route holds enormous potential for the growth of the state’s visitor economy.”

Scott Charlton, Sydney Airport CEO, said: “This announcement of direct flights marks a significant milestone for travel to Europe, offering passengers seamless access to hundreds of destinations from Turkish Airlines’ Istanbul hub.

“We are proud of Turkish Airlines, Sydney and NSW for their first non-stop service, which is a strong endorsement of everything our city and state has to offer. In the meantime, passengers will get to experience Turkish Airlines’ award-winning service from Sydney to Istanbul via Kuala Lumpur in December 2024.”

Charlton added: “With more than 15,000 Turkish-born Australians in NSW and Türkiye consistently rated as one of the top destinations for Australian travellers, we’re confident this service will be strongly supported. Today’s announcement is also incredibly important for the Sydney and NSW economies and speaks to the impact of international aviation in supporting our visitor economy.

“We’re looking forward to Turkish Airlines’ inaugural flight and growing their services in the years to come.”

Istanbul – Sydney Flight Schedule

The special launch prices for Turkish Airlines’ Sydney to Istanbul flights are AUD$1489, and US$999 for Istanbul to Sydney flights.

The launch prices are valid for:

Ticketing Date: 12 September – 31 December 2024

Travel Date: 04 December 2024 – 31 May 2025.

As the largest city in Australia and the capital of New South Wales, Sydney is a major global hub for business, tourism and the arts. Home to the famous Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge, the city offers a unique and iconic experience for its visitors whether they are visiting for business or leisure. Now, travellers around the world will have the opportunity to enjoy Sydney with the comfort and hospitality of Turkish Airlines. Meanwhile, the flag carrier’s Australian guests will be able take advantage of its globe spanning network in a more convenient manner.