Turkish Airlines Expands Global Reach with Flights to Melbourne

Turkish Airlines has announced a significant expansion of its global flight network by incorporating Melbourne, Australia, as its latest destination. This move marks the airline's foray into its sixth continent, underlining its status as the carrier flying to more countries than any other.

The airline, known for its extensive network, already connects passengers to 129 countries and 345 destinations across five continents. The addition of Melbourne as the 346th destination in 130 countries is a strategic step in Turkish Airlines' growth strategy, which focuses on expanding its unique flight network.

Starting from 15 March 2024, Turkish Airlines will operate three flights per week to Melbourne, enhancing the tourism and trade volumes between Türkiye and Australia. These flights, which will be relayed via Singapore, give Turkish Airlines the distinction of being the only European airline currently operating flights to Melbourne Airport.

The detailed winter and summer flight schedules have been announced, offering convenient options for passengers traveling between Istanbul and Melbourne. The special launch prices for these flights are set at 1499 AUD for Melbourne to Istanbul and 1199 USD for Istanbul to Melbourne, valid for ticketing between 19 January and 15 April 2024 and for travel from 15 March to 15 May 2024.

Prof. Dr. Ahmet Bolat, Chairman of the Board and the Executive Committee of Turkish Airlines, expressed enthusiasm about reaching the Australian continent, a long-term goal for the airline. He highlighted the airline's significant global value and its commitment to maintaining its mission as the most internationally connected airline. The addition of Melbourne to its network is seen as an opportunity to bring Turkish and Australian communities closer and strengthen bilateral relations in tourism, trade, and business.

The Victorian Government and Melbourne Airport have supported the new route, recognizing its potential to connect Türkiye with Australia's largest Turkish community and one of Victoria's largest trading centers. This new connection is expected to enhance Melbourne's access to markets in Europe, the Middle East, the Balkans, and Africa through Istanbul, contributing to the region's tourism, international education, business, and trade potential.

Looking ahead, Turkish Airlines aims to organize direct flights to Melbourne and other Australian cities with the acquisition of new aircraft capable of operating non-stop flights between Istanbul and Melbourne. This expansion reflects the airline's ongoing efforts to strengthen its presence in Australia and enhance its global flight network, offering passengers more destinations and connecting more countries worldwide.