Turkish Airlines (THY) aims to expand its ultra-long-haul network by potentially adding Auckland to its future destinations. Following the launch of direct flights to Sydney and Melbourne in late 2025, the airline plans to operate non-stop flights from Istanbul to Auckland by 2026.
THY CEO Bilal Ekşi stated in an interview with Aviation Week that the current Sydney flights include a stopover in Kuala Lumpur, but this will be eliminated by 2026, reducing flight time by approximately three hours. While emphasizing their primary goal of increasing frequency in the existing network, Ekşi also highlighted the significant potential of flights to New Zealand.
Direct Flights to South America Also in the Pipeline
THY is planning major expansions in its South American routes as well. The airline, set to begin flights to Santiago via São Paulo on December 18, intends to eventually operate these routes directly with A350-1000 jets. Chairman of the Board Ahmet Bolat noted that this model, powered by high-capacity Rolls-Royce engines, will deliver full-capacity service to destinations worldwide.
A Stronger Fleet with the A350-1000
With 15 A350-1000 aircraft scheduled for delivery in 2025, THY is set to enhance its competitiveness in long-haul operations. These planes will feature the same advanced technology used by Qantas for its Project Sunrise direct flights between London and New York. Bolat explained that while the airline’s current Boeing 787s can operate Istanbul-Melbourne flights with limited capacity, the A350-1000 will remove this limitation.
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