Istanbul Awaits: Turkish Airlines to Introduce Direct Flights From Sydney

Turkish Airlines just made it easier than ever for Sydneysiders to visit Istanbul.

Turkish Airlines has announced that Sydney will be the inaugural destination in Australia to receive non-stop flights from Istanbul, once an aircraft capable of completing the journey in a single leg becomes available. Starting in December, flights will operate four times a week, initially including a refuelling stop in Kuala Lumpur.

Non-stop services to Sydney are anticipated by 2026, with Melbourne to follow by 2027.

“We are proud that Turkish Airlines chose Sydney and New South Wales for its first non-stop service, which is a strong endorsement of everything our city and state has to offer,” said Sydney Airport CEO Scott Charlton. “With Türkiye consistently rated as one of the top destinations for Australian travellers, we’re confident this service will be strongly supported.”

Turkish Airlines Chairman Ahmet Bolat stated that the development makes it easier for travellers from both countries to explore each other’s rich heritage, vibrant cultures and breathtaking landscapes.

“This new route not only enhances our flight network but also reaffirms our commitment to our presence in Australia as we connect our guests to new opportunities and experiences,” he said.

The new flights are expected to bring an additional 68,620 inbound seats to Sydney over 12 months, supporting 290 jobs and generating an estimated A$53 million for New South Wales visitor economy, according to the state’s Minister for Jobs and Tourism John Graham.

Discover Istanbul

Istanbul, Turkey

AJWA Sultanahmet

Pamper yourself with a visit to the spa, which offers massages and facials. You’re sure to appreciate the recreational amenities, including an indoor pool, a sauna, and a fitness center. This hotel also features complimentary wireless internet access, concierge services, and gift shops/newsstands.

Total of 5 nights, 2 adults from

US$1,358

Istanbul, Turkiye

Vakko Hotel & Residence

Boutique Vakko Istanbul Escape in Sophisticated Nisantasi

3 nights from

US$2,306 /room

Valued up to US$2,834-9%

Istanbul, Turkiye

Crowne Plaza Istanbul – Old City, an IHG Hotel

Istanbul Old City Heritage Stay near Laleli Mosque

1 night from

US$101 /room

Istanbul, Turkey

Çırağan Palace Kempinski Istanbul

Five-Star Kempinski Istanbul Palace Stay with Breathtaking Bosphorus Strait Views

3 nights from

US$1,557 /room

Buyukada, Turkiye

Princes’ Palace Resort

Sophisticated Turkiye Buyukada Island Escape with Onsite Spa & Rooftop Terrace

3 nights from

US$1,753 /room

Istanbul, Turkiye

Crowne Plaza Istanbul – Ortakoy Bosphorus, an IHG Hotel

Elegant Istanbul Bosphorus Coast Escape 15 Minutes from the Grand Bazaar with Spa & Rooftop Dining

1 night from

US$107 /room

Istanbul, Turkey

Shangri-La Bosphorus, Istanbul

Istanbul 1920s Shangri-La Heritage Stay on the Bosphorus Strait

3 nights from

US$1,187 /room

Valued up to US$1,423-7%

Istanbul, Turkey

Six Senses Kocataş Mansions

Istanbul Five-Star Heritage Mansion Escape on the Banks of the Bosphorus Strait

3 nights from

US$1,469 /room

Istanbul, Turkiye

InterContinental Istanbul

Modern Istanbul Escape Overlooking the Bosphorus Strait

1 night from

US$145 /room

Looking for something else?

View all

View all Istanbul escapes

Flights from Sydney to Istanbul are available at special launch prices from A$1,489, while flights from Istanbul to Sydney start from US$999. Prices are valid for ticketing from 12 September to 31 December 31, with travel between 4 December 2024, and 31 May 2025 (prices accurate at time of publication and subject to change).  

The flights will operate on an Airbus A350-900, with 32 Business Class and 297 Economy Class seats.