Turkish Airlines will begin four direct flights a week between Istanbul and Sydney from December 5, with support from the NSW Government’s Aviation Attraction Fund.
The new route will deliver an additional 68,620 inbound seats to Sydney Airport in its first year, which is expected to support more than 290 jobs and generate an estimated $53 million for the NSW visitor economy.
Initially the route will involve a refuelling stop in Kuala Lumpur but will go on to become a non-stop flight to Istanbul, creating a new flight option for Australians travelling to Europe, said Minister for Jobs and Tourism, John Graham.
“I am thrilled that Turkish Airlines is touching down in Sydney for the first time, providing European travellers with direct access to our state’s world-class visitor experiences,” said Mr Graham.
“The NSW Government has worked closely with Sydney Airport and Turkish Airlines to secure this new service.
“Sydney is the gateway to Australia and supporting this new route holds enormous potential for the growth of the state’s visitor economy.”
Turkish Airlines Chairman of the Board and the Executive Committee, Professor Dr Ahmet Bolat said today marked a significant milestone for Turkish Airlines.
“This new route not only enhances our global network but also reaffirms our commitment to connecting passengers with new opportunities and experiences,” he said.
“Sydney represents a vibrant gateway to the Southern Hemisphere, and we are thrilled to offer our travellers unparalleled access to this dynamic city.
“This expansion underscores our dedication to growing our network and providing exceptional service, bridging continents and bringing people closer together.”
Today’s announcement comes after last month’s news that Singapore Airlines would be the first international carrier to fly from Western Sydney Airport when it opens in 2026, and last week’s announcement that the Aviation Attraction Fund will support the upgraded Newcastle Airport to attract international routes.
“This announcement of direct flights marks a significant milestone for travel to Europe, offering passengers seamless access to hundreds of destinations from Turkish Airlines’ Istanbul hub,” said Sydney Airport CEO, Scott Charlton.
“With more than 15,000 Turkish-born Australians in NSW and Türkiye consistently rated as one of the top destinations for Australian travellers, we’re confident this service will be strongly supported.”
The fund is administered by Destination NSW with applications open between February 2022 and June 2023.
