The skies are opening up with new possibilities for Australian travellers, and this December marks the beginning of a historic journey. Turkish Airlines, a major player in the global aviation industry, has announced an exciting development that will see Sydney become the latest addition to its expansive network. This new venture will introduce an Australian-first flight route, connecting Sydney directly to Istanbul, with a brief stopover in Malaysia.

For years, Australians have longed for more direct connections to Europe, and Turkish Airlines is answering that call. The Melbourne to Istanbul route, which launched earlier this year, has already seen success, and now it's Sydney's turn to join the international travel revolution. Starting from December, passengers will be able to embark on flights from Sydney to Istanbul and back, a route that has never before been available from the nation's busiest airport.



But the innovation doesn't stop there. In a move that will further streamline travel between Australia and Europe, Turkish Airlines plans to transition this service to a non-stop route by late 2026. The exact start date is yet to be announced and will hinge on the delivery schedules of new aircraft. This direct service will offer East Coast travellers a seamless portal into Turkiye, and from there, the rest of Europe is just a stone's throw away.


Sydney Airport CEO Scott Charlton has hailed the new route as a 'groundbreaking service that will revolutionize travel between Australia and Europe.' He emphasized the significance of this development for the Sydney and New South Wales economies, highlighting the vital role of international aviation in bolstering the visitor economy.



The new Sydney to Istanbul route isn't just a gateway to Turkiye; it's a conduit to a world of travel opportunities. Turkish Airlines boasts an impressive network, offering one-stop itineraries to over 340 destinations across 130 countries. This means that travellers can now explore far-flung locales and hidden gems with unprecedented ease.

This expansion into the Australian market is the result of careful planning and extensive infrastructure developments by Turkish Airlines. Professor Dr Ahmet Bolat, Chairman of the Board and the Executive Committee of Turkish Airlines, expressed his enthusiasm for the new connection, noting that Australia's 'breathtaking landscapes and warm-hearted people' make it a fitting addition to their global network, which now spans six continents.

To celebrate this milestone, Turkish Airlines is offering special launch prices for the Sydney to Istanbul flights starting from $1489. These promotional fares are available for travel between 12 September and 31 December 2024, and from 4 December 2024 until 31 May 2025.




As we look to the skies with anticipation, this new route promises to open doors to cultural exchanges, business opportunities, and unforgettable travel experiences. It's a significant moment for Australian travellers and a testament to the ever-growing connectivity of our world. So, pack your bags and prepare to embark on a journey like no other, because the world just got a little bit smaller for Aussies looking to explore the vast horizons of our planet.