Turkish Airlines is preparing to introduce a new direct service between Istanbul and Sydney starting in 2026. The airline plans to operate daily nonstop flights on this route, pending the delivery of longer-range aircraft. This move aims to enhance connectivity and reduce travel times between Turkey and Australia.
Currently, Turkish Airlines offers four weekly flights from Istanbul to Sydney via Kuala Lumpur, with plans to increase frequency throughout the year. By mid-June, the airline will operate five weekly flights, increasing to six by the end of October. Daily services are expected to begin on January 12, 2026.
Greg Botham, Sydney Airport’s Group Executive for Aviation Growth and Group Strategy, expressed enthusiasm about the potential nonstop service: “We’re also excited by the prospect of a future non-stop service to Istanbul, which will make travel between our two countries even more seamless.”
Turkish Airlines’ fleet includes 24 A350-900s with additional orders for 66 A350-900s and 15 A350-1000s. The airline intends to modify up to five A350-1000s for nonstop routes like Sydney, leveraging a higher Maximum Takeoff Weight (MTOW).
The planned nonstop flight from Istanbul to Sydney covers approximately 9,300 miles (14,966 km) with an estimated flight time of 19 hours. This route would become the longest ever operated by Turkish Airlines.
The introduction of this new route is expected to offer more travel options for European connections and increase visitor numbers in Sydney. With over 15,000 Turkish-born Australians residing in New South Wales and Türkiye being a popular destination for Australians, this development could attract many travelers.
Botham added: “Turkish Airlines’ decision to ramp up to daily services so soon after launching in Sydney is a tremendous vote of confidence in the strength of the market. This expansion will provide even greater connectivity between Australia and Türkiye, benefiting both business and leisure travellers.”
In addition to its expansion plans in Australia, Turkish Airlines has recently launched flights to Santiago, Chile—its 26th destination in the Americas—and continues its operations across various continents. The airline holds a Guinness World Records title for flying to more countries than any other airline globally.
