Turkish Airlines is expanding its global flight network with a new service connecting Istanbul to Melbourne via Singapore, marking its entry into the Australian market. Scheduled to commence on March 15, 2024, this new route highlights the airline’s commitment to connecting diverse destinations globally.
Schedule and Frequency
The service will operate three times a week with the following itinerary:
- Istanbul to Singapore: Departure at 17:30, Arrival at 08:50 (the next day), Flight number TK168, Operates on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays.
- Singapore to Melbourne: Departure at 10:20 (the next day), Arrival at 20:40 (the next day), Flight number TK168, Operates on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays.
- Melbourne to Singapore: Departure at 22:30, Arrival at 03:00 (the next day), Flight number TK169, Operates on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays.
- Singapore to Istanbul: Departure at 04:30 (the next day), Arrival at 11:15 (the next day), Flight number TK169, Operates on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays.
Aircraft and Capacity
The flights will initially be operated by Turkish Airlines’ Boeing B787-9 Dreamliners, featuring 30 lie-flat Business Class seats and 270 standard Economy Class seats. The aircraft offers a comfortable and modern travel experience for passengers.
Fifth Freedom Traffic Rights
An essential aspect of this route is the “fifth freedom” traffic rights secured by Turkish Airlines between Singapore and Melbourne. This allows the airline to carry passengers solely between these two cities, without the need for traveling all the way to or from Istanbul. This development adds another airline option for Lion City residents traveling to and from Melbourne.
Future Plans and Expectations
Turkish Airlines aims to strengthen its presence in Australia by potentially increasing flight frequencies and adding more destinations in the future. The airline’s entry into the Australian market is expected to enhance bilateral tourism, trade, and business opportunities between Turkey and Australia.
This new route from Turkish Airlines not only enriches its extensive flight network but also provides travelers with more options for intercontinental travel, particularly connecting Europe, the Middle East, and Asia to Australia.
