muyansuites flew Turkish Airlines Economy, on a A319 (01/05/2012 13:09)

We have used Turkish Airlines from Istanbul to London and it was amazing. I would like to thank to all team and I can not tell how I was honoured with its service as a Turk.

norbert2008 flew Turkish Airlines Business (long-haul), on a A330-300 (03/04/2012 09:03)

Due to the late departure of incoming flight from London I was only given 45 mins to transfer to my flight to BKK, although no real help was provided by Turkish I still had time to have a quick drink in the splendid lounge before getting to my gate in time for boarding.

Business class were boarded speratly, the seat sadly was old style angle not flat bed as we had, had on LHR IST, seems odd. However welcome drinks were offered and jackets taken.

Take off was on time, drinks service was slow on this full night flight but menus with my name on it and amenties kits handed out. The flying chef (if not dressed like the one from the Muppets) is a very nice touch and took orders for main course.

Tables were laid and a tasty Turkish meze off a trolley was offered, my main course off beef was cooked well and presented very nicely, I passed on pudding but cheese was lovely, breakfast orders were taken before lights out.

I passed an uncomfortable night in the seat but the plane was not over hot and I was woken with a well presented breakfast, including carrot jucie drink.

Turkish cannot be faulted on their food but please flat beds soon on these long flights. My nine stars for baggage was as I walked to the reclaim in BKK my bag was coming off in the first 3. Well done TK.

akingunday flew Turkish Airlines Economy, on a A320-200 (03/02/2012 11:20)

SBingham flew Turkish Airlines Comfort Class, on a B777-300ER (27/11/2011 13:59)

Tried Turkish airlines new comfort class from IST to HKG.

The airport experience was ok but I think that was due to flight not being busy. The new cabin is quite large and the seats have plenty of room, 46inches.

I was in row 11 so had extra space. We received business class amenity bags which had all the usual items, we took off about 15 mins late but once in the air the stewardess came round and took drink orders shortly after it arrived with canapés.

The menu consisted of Turkish meze which on this flight was chicken salad and another plate with prawns and chicken both quite large in themselves, the main course was also chicken roasted with mash potato all were great and very filling, this was followed by dessert and cheese and biscuits if I had not been hungry I could not have managed it all.

We had a nice friendly crew on this flight with bottles of water handed out and responded to call bells. This was a night flight so service was swift and lights lowered as soon as service was over. All seats have there own tv screens and excellent choice of films and tv programmes.

The seat was comfortable but still nothing beats a flat bed. 2 hours before arriving into HKG we were served a hot breakfast which was also delicious.

Landed on time and bags arrived quickly, all in all a very pleasant flight.

Stephen787 flew Turkish Airlines Business (long-haul), on a A330-300 (02/11/2011 09:33)

After a wonderful visit to the newly opened Turkish Airlines business lounge at IST with numerous food choices I was already well fed and watered before waiting in the crowded gate for the 11:30pm departure on the new Turkish A330.

Having seen advertising for the new Turkish business class seating when I booked this trip I was hoping for one of the new aircraft. So when I got to the gate and saw the new livery it was a good sign that I was in luck.

This aircraft was fitted with the latest flat-bed seating which was perfect for the 11hr overnight flight to Singapore. Champagne, water or juice was offered before take off along with a selection of newspapers (which seemed a little odd so late at night).

Soon after takeoff the 5 crew started busily serving the 28 business passengers the 5 course dinner which lasted on past 1:30am. Despite having sampled several wonderful Turkish dishes in the lounge I could not resist more of the Do&Co catering on-board.

The appetiser was a choice of a mixed Turkish mezze plate or Caesar Salad with prawns. I tried the mezze which was huge and served with a bread roll was almost a full meal in itself.

Next was either a Turkish Bean Salad or Traditional Turkish Wedding Soup. I'd heard about this soup so was keen to try it. I asked the flight attendant to describe it and all she could tell me was that it was delicious - and it was. A creamy white, lemon/yoghurt soup with small chunks of roasted lamb sprinkled on top.

Main course was a choice of Swordfish, Beef Tournedos or Artichoke Ravioli. I chose the Beef but could not finish it.

The dessert trolley appeared soon after along with cheese, before digestives and coffee were offered. Just a pity the crew did not smile much, but then the Turkish ground staff did not smile either. So maybe its a cultural thing.

Passengers were settling down for sleep by the end of the meal service. The Turkish Kavaklidere Narince wine was not to my taste so I sent it back to be replaced with a 2007 Michel Laroche French Chardonnay. Which was less agressive to my palate.

After dinner I settled into the flat bed to watch a couple of movies (with noise cancelling headphones) before dozing off under the large quilt.

The Planet IFE system content was fairly average and no comparison to QF, SQ or EK's IFE system.

The new flat beds are a little on the firm side but the pillows provided were the best airline pillows I've ever experience - full plump and a decent size for sleeping.

The amenity kit contained Hermes cosmetics, a hair brush, toothbrush and paste, and earplugs. Turkish embroided slippers, socks and eye mask were also provided.

The next morning another huge meal was offered - a 3 course Turkish style breakfast. This is pre-ordered with the crew when you order your dinner.

A choice of juices, hot beverages along with olives, Turkish cheese, yoghurt, fruit, pastries and two egg dishes is on offer. Food seems to be the Turkish strong point. I've never been offered so much, not even in First. After breakfast the crew tidied up before landing in Singapore mid afternoon.

Overall a great product for a reasonable price. I'd definitely fly with them again.

hmasurg flew Turkish Airlines Economy, on a B737-800 (01/11/2011 18:17)

Riyadh to Istanbul Economy 737-800

Reservation and Ticketing: Was made online about 4 months in advance. Prices would change sometimes on daily basis. Final price (flexible ticket) was slightly cheaper than the completion for this route (LH or AF).

Website was acceptable but not close to being special. E-ticket issued and emailed separately which at first was a bit confusing. Online check was not available for flights from Riyadh, but it was for my second leg to Toronto.

Check-in: as usual in RUH not organized took about 15 minutes all in all with only two customers ahead of me in line. Online check in was only available for the second leg of my trip (IST-YYZ). As usual 2 bags allowed each no more than 23Kg.

Boarding: About 15 minutes behind schedule. Not organized nor prioritized.

Greetings: Standard smiles.

Cabin, seating and Entertainment: standard 737-800 cabin, dark leather seats (show their age) with standard width and seat pitch. No PTV. Shared TV’s would slide down (not very clear).

No programming for the flight except for a loop of Turkish advertisements. Inflight magazine and saftycards in place. I noticed that the cabin temperature was not as cool as I would like it.

Meal: Menus were passed a selection of two main courses available. The meal on this flight was breakfast which for economy class standards is the best I have tasted since my childhood with a harty portion. Standard and alcoholic beverages available.

Timing: Departed about 20minutes late and arrived about 5 minutes behind schedual.

Arrival: Smooth disembarkation. Early morning forced smiles. Our aircraft had parked at a non gated position there was confusion and lack of busses once we were on the tarmac. Ultimately all the passengers were bused in two cramped busses.

Two short videos of this flight is available on my personal YT channel
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ULSXsHX8-6M
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7vNxHsno-pc

VERDICT: Would recommend TK (as part of a second leg journey) provided one can cope with the suboptimal layover in IST (although not terrible) and the warm cabin in flight. Keep scouting their site for prices (they change frequently).

hmasurg flew Turkish Airlines Economy (long-haul), on a B777-300ER (01/11/2011 18:08)

Istanbul to Toronto 777-300ER Economy Class

Reservation and Ticketing: Was made online about 4 months in advance. Prices would change sometimes on daily basis. Final price (flexible ticket) was slightly cheaper than the competition for this route (LH or AF).

Website was acceptable but not close to being special (just recently the site was modified and looks and feels better). E-ticket issued and emailed separately which at first was a bit confusing. Online check in was available.

Boarding: Once called there was a long and slow line at the gate lounge with extra security checks.

The boarding was chaotic despite the TK staff requesting passengers to board by row and class. The masses did'tt seem to care or understand and unfortunately TK staff didn’t do much to rectify the chaos.

Greeting: by well groomed and smiling FA as well as the onboard chef which was a nice touch and a first for
me.

Cabin and Seating: TK seems to be proud of their new flagship the 777-300ER and they should be. The aircraft is a spacious triple 7 with some nice TK touches like nice designs on the walls of the bulkheads between each cabin as well as a very decadent LED illuminated TK logo.

The gally/bulkhead area of boarding (second door on the fuselage) has it’s floors in wood rather than carpet which is another first for me and a very nice touch.

The Economy class seat configuration is 3-3-3 and 2-3-2 in the last two rows. The seats are furbished in an unusal color design which at first I didn’t like but once seen in person found to be cool and relaxing.

All the seats are in light blue while the head rests for seats ABC are green with A being lime and C being dark green, DEF seats are in red while JKL seats are in blue in the same concept.

There is mood lighting in the ceiling (but was only used at the end of the flight before breakfast was served with an orange color).

The cooling on the flight was sub-optimal and many were sweating by the last 3 hours of the flight, FA’s didn’t seem to be able to deal with my concern when asked them.

Entertainment, amenities and Kits: Each seat has a touch screen PTV with USB, Ethernet, Comp to TV jacks as well as Empower plugs located under the seat. A hook to hang your jacket.

The controller is mounted on the seat infront of you below the screen which eliminates the annoying fetching of the controller in the arm rest. Pilows and blankets.

Kit with the usual stuff in an otherwise dull bage bag but it did include a small container with lip balm. Inflight magazine, safety card, sanitary bag and entertainment guide all neatly placed in a plastic folder in the seat pocket.

Meals: A menu was distributed just after takeoff. Dinner (a choice of two) and breakfast (single choice) were to be served in this flight. Pre dinner drinks were served.

I was not disappointed with the TK meal, great quality and very tasty one of the absolute best economy class meals I have ever had. Breakfast was served about 2 hours prior to landing and was just as good.

Timing: Departed and arrived on time.

Arrival: smooth disembarkation. Nice greeting at the door (with the chef).

VERDICT: Would recommend TK provided one can cope with the suboptimal layover in IST (although not terrible) and the warm cabin in flight.

Keep scouting their site for prices (they change frequently). If at all possible, try to fly with their newer 777-300ER or A330-300.

Stephen787 flew Turkish Airlines Business (long-haul), on a A340-300 (13/10/2011 10:01)

After a wonderful visit to the newly opened Turkish Airlines business lounge at IST I was already well fed and watered before waiting in the crowded gate at 11:30pm and then boarding the new Turkish A330.

This aircraft was fitted with the latest flat-bed seating which was a highlight for an 11hr overnight flight to Singapore. Champagne, water or Juice was offered before take off along with a selection of newspapers (which seemed a little odd so late at night).

Soon after takeoff the 5 crew started busily serving the 28 business passengers the 5 course dinner which lasted on past 1:30am. Just a pity they did not smile much, but then the Turkish ground staff did not smile either.

Passengers were settling down for sleep by the end of the meal service. The Turkish white wine was not to my taste so I sent it back to be replaced with a French Chardonnay.

After dinner I settled into the flat bed to watch a couple of movies (with noise cancelling headphones) before dozing off. The Planet IFE system content was fairly average and no comparison to QF, SQ or EK's IFE system.

The new flat beds are a little on the firm side but the pillows provided were the best airline pillows I've ever experience - full plump and a decent size for sleeping. The amenity kit contained Hermes cosmetics, hair brush and toothbrush and paste, and earplugs. Turkish embroided slippers were also provided.

The next morning another huge meal was offered - a 3 course Turkish style breakfast. Food seems to be the Turkish strong point. I've never been offered so much, not even in First. After breakfast the crew tidied up before landing in Singapore mid afternoon.

Overall a great product for a reasonable price. I'd definitely fly with them again.

Trust747 flew Turkish Airlines Economy, on a A321-100/200 (13/10/2011 09:51)

I have been impressed by the strategic changes made at Turkish in recent years but I've not had the chance to travel with them until yesterday...and what a great experience it turned out to be.

A clean, new A321 with all leather seats. One of the slickest economoy cabins I have seen. Seats recline and slide and they have a wrap-worund headrest that has a great travel range. As with most airlines the seat is good for sitting but not necessairly for sleeeping. The icing on the cake was the IFE with video on demand (VOD) with an extensive choice of movies.

Cabin crew were efficient although not engaging and the food was excellent. A comprehensive tray set up included a nice smoked salmon starter and a pannacotta dessert with cheese and crackers to follow. The entree was simple but very tasty and the choice of complimentary drinks was good.

On a 4 hour flight, this was one of the best services I have ever had.

Efficiently boarded in good time for an on-time departure.

Trust747 flew Turkish Airlines Economy, on a A321-100/200 (13/10/2011 09:44)

Survivor flew Turkish Airlines First (long-haul), on a B777-300ER (16/08/2011 14:22)

Once checked in at the first class counter, a customer service escorted us through immigration and then on to the lounge to an assigned dining table. A leather bound menu from starter to dessert offering mainly Turkish cuisine. The menu is rather extensive for an airline lounge but the lounge itself needs lots of updating.

The aircraft on this flight is leased from Jet Airways which is clearly stated in the interactive seat/light panel. The seat in first class is a suite with sliding doors for privacy which I have to admit, so far this has to be my best undisturbed sleep on an overnight long haul flight. As requested, the crew made my bed for sleep and one nice touch which I appreciated was the lavender pouch placed next to my pillow ... that made the differenc! Bulgaria toiletries are provided in the overnight kit and if this is not your preference, Loccitane (verbena scent) is available in the toilets.

The food selection on board is very extensive but I only chose to have a light breakfast just before landing.

Good flight overrall and it is not as bad as I have been told about Turkish Airlines.

Stephen787 flew Turkish Airlines Economy, on a A321-100/200 (06/08/2011 01:31)

TXL to IST
Berlin's Tegel airport is from around the 1960's and it is showing it's age, but the efficient Berliners have kept it clean and in working order. Due to the lack of space in this compact terminal once you enter through passport control you are forced to wait in a small waiting area at the gate with only a drink vending machine and a tiny last minute duty free shop to break the boredom. Luckily there are floor to ceiling windows giving waiting passengers a view of the tarmac and runway.

Once on board the A321 this aircraft starts to show it's age with seating of aqua and tan leather that has seen better days. Probably the worst combination of colours you could put together. However the seats in economy were remarkably comfortable for the 2hr 45min flight. Given that the flight only about 20% full most passengers had a row to themselves. Business seats were of similar pitch but with the middle seat folding down to make a table space, arm rest between the window and aisle as well as a fold down foot rest on the seat in front.

After takeoff headsets were handed out along with a packet of Turkish hazelnuts and menus for lunch. About 20 mins later a tasty hot lunch was served with for Do&Co catering who handle all of Turkish airlines catering now. No second drink round was offered.
Entertainment included a movie viewed from drop-down screens from under the overhead lockers as well as various Turkish pop music and classical channels on the armrest control.

A pity the crew didn't smile or go out of their way to be friendly. They were robotic in nature and once the lunch service was distributed they sat down the back and chatted for the rest of the flight. Overall a quality product in this age of budget airlines and cutbacks. The only aspect to spoil this great flight was the surly crew. As I later discovered almost all Turkish crew and ground staff seemed to be this way, such a pity for an airline trying to improve.

akingunday flew Turkish Airlines Business, on a B737-800 (17/11/2010 13:36)

I am living in Basel and I know TK sending always small and old planes to BSL.

This time I Purchased my Business Ticket from Zurich to Istanbul, because of Business amenities has more availability in ZRH. But main purpose was the Plane, ZRH is a business hub and TK sending always new planes! The plane was not what I expected, same as BSL.

The Business Seat were Broken, I called Stewardess and she offered to move another seat.

The Question is here; are they not controlling Business Seats before flight?

The second opinion is; why are they sending all the children just behind the Business? If a Baby who needs special wall mount bedding it is OK, but can you imagine you pay lots of money and just behind you many children crying during all flight.

There is no inflight Duty Free with TK flights. I thought I can buy something during flight.

Lastly; I have priority badge on my Luggage, but arrived the last and latest!

It was the same IST and ZRH Airports.

When they change their Seats I think TK would be the Best!

ISTANBUL Airport Security Issues, Horrible, I never seen any Airport that controls you and your luggage before entry to the Airport. Wait and wait. But this trip I surprised because there was a privat Business Entry!

uskuhlmans flew Turkish Airlines Business (long-haul), on a A340-300 (14/09/2010 20:21)

My experience in the airport was less than stellar. There were lines to get into lines and even the Business Class check-in had a long wait. The lounge is distinctly Ottoman in design and does not look like any other lounge I have ever visited. There were ample supplies of food and drink. The aircraft was in good shape and the service, throughout the flight, was just fine. One of the lunch deserts was a real knock-out and I asked later in the flight if any portions were still available. Within a few minutes, it had arrived at my seat with a smile. The IFE was fine and had a good selection but I tend to read rather than watch so the offer was more than adequate for my needs. There was no language barrier but speaking clearly and slowly is advised as not all the crew are completely fluent in English. The high point was the food which was delicious, well presented and served at an individual pace. I chose only the Turkish specialties at each meal and was not disappointed. The catering was truly outstanding and the menus are presented on large cards with the passenger's name and seat inscribed. The flight was delayed leaving but arrived in Chicago on time. Except for the confusing processes at IST, this was a great flight.

uskuhlmans flew Turkish Airlines Business (long-haul), on a A330-200 (14/09/2010 20:10)

Our flight was diverted to Dublin when a passenger suffered a heart attack enroute. The on-board staff was clearly stretched by the experience but they kept passengers fully informed, both prior to landing and during the ground stop. The food was excellent and the seat, though not lie-flat, was comfortable and I was able to sleep well.

alwaysinclub flew Turkish Airlines Business, on a A321-100/200 (26/08/2010 19:38)

My flight took me from Dubai to Istanbul, there are only three 'non-stop' choices on this route, Emirates, Turkish Airlines and Fly Dubai (as a low cost carrier option). From nearby Sharjah, there is an option to use Air Arabia, which is again low cost. I was flying Business Class and connecting to a flight to Germany. The fare was around 50% of the price that Lufthansa quoted and this is why I decided to use Turkish and overall, I was not impressed.

Check In was a mess. First of all there is the pre-screening of bags (not needed if you fly Lufthansa from Dubai any more by the way) there were 2 people in front of me in the business class check in, and the staff at the check-in desks were having issues getting them processed. When I finally got to the front of the queue, I was dealt with speedily and my backs through checked to Hanover.

The lounge was the Dubai Airport Hotel Lounge, which was very well stocked with hot and cold food. I took some salad and pasties, tea and water. There are no boarding announcements, so I headed to the gate early.

Boarding was by class and as a consequence I was one of the first to board.

The seat was not impressive, like an old cradle style seat, in red fabric, with the reclining function not working fully and it was very tired and dirty. I was offered some juice of water and then a menu to choose a breakfast from. I was also offered a newspaper.

After take-off a hot towel was served and the breakfast service started. The food was not impressive and not plentiful. I left about a third of it which is unlike me. The crew were not attentive and I found I has chasing them for water or tea throughout, nobody came through to offer anything after breakfast and there was no snack or nibbles offered towards the end of the flight. The flight is 4 hours long.

The IFE did not keep me entertained, as it was an old 8 channel style system showing a route map, camera of what we were flying over, 3 foreign movies and 2 English movies.

Landing in Istanbul was fine and disembarking was fine. Overall, distinctly average and this would not be my first choice on the route I was travelling.

cardealer flew Turkish Airlines Business (long-haul), on a B777-300ER (27/03/2010 15:17)

I have a house in dalyan turkey and fly off season with turkish arlines. i flew business class with them last september and return october both on the 777 300er. the seat is the same virgin upper class the food was great and drink service top class good on demand ife. superb crew both ways and have to say for the price paid amazing value. £1075 return for both of us. when you consider easy jet were charging £700 for the nothing flight this was great and would recommend to anyone.

frustratedflyer flew Turkish Airlines Business (long-haul), on a A340-300 (19/11/2009 03:41)

An old seat that is not a flat bed but service is fine.