Turkish Airlines launches direct flights from Australia to Melbourne expanding global reach

Tuesday, March 5, 2024

Expanding its global footprint to encompass six continents and 346 destinations across 130 countries, Türkiye’s national flag carrier introduces passengers to the captivating allure of Melbourne. With a fleet of 450 modern aircraft, Turkish Airlines, renowned for its extensive reach, now includes Melbourne as its inaugural destination in Australia.

As the airline embarks on its maiden flight to Melbourne via the Singapore Changi International Airport transfer point, it offers exclusive introductory fares to passengers. Operating three weekly flights to the bustling capital of Victoria State, Turkish Airlines facilitates trade and tourism between Türkiye and Australia, serving thousands of passengers annually on the İstanbul-Melbourne route.

This expansion marks Turkish Airlines as the sole European carrier flying to Melbourne Airport, further solidifying its position as a global aviation leader. With Melbourne’s addition, Turkish Airlines proudly extends its network to encompass Australia for the first time, underscoring its commitment to connecting diverse destinations worldwide.

Commenting on the inaugural flight to Melbourne, Turkish Airlines Chairman of the Board and the Executive Committee, Prof. Dr. Ahmet Bolat stated: “Today marks a monumental milestone for Turkish Airlines, as we celebrate the realization of a long-held ambition—to extend our reach to the Australian continent. This achievement follows meticulous planning and extensive infrastructure developments, symbolizing the successful bridging of Istanbul with a new and vibrant continent. The inauguration of our Melbourne route is a testament to our growing influence in the Asia-Pacific region and underscores our unwavering commitment to fostering connections between diverse cultures and communities across the globe. Australia, with its breathtaking landscapes and warm-hearted people, now becomes the 130th country to join our expansive network, signifying our presence across six continents. Through our unparalleled network, we are thrilled to offer our guests a gateway to global exploration, ensuring that our legacy of exceptional service quality continues to flourish in every corner of the world.”

Minister for Jobs and Industry Natalie Hutchins stated: “Victoria is home to Australia’s largest Türkiye-born community, a big nod to our vibrant multicultural state. We look forward to creating easier connections for this community and boosting tourism with the arrival of Turkish Airlines.”

Melbourne Airport CEO Lorie Argus said the airline’s entry into the Australian market provides new options for travellers and local exporters: “Turkish Airlines has an extensive network and flies to more countries than any other airline so this new competitor in the Australian market is fantastic news for consumers. We’ve worked closely with the Victorian State Government to bring Turkish Airlines to Melbourne, and we now look forward to see them growing their services over the coming years. Increased competition helps put downward pressure on prices, which will ensure Victorian residents and businesses can stay connected with family, friends and clients around the world. Melbourne is proudly home to the largest Turkish population in Australia, so we expect these flights will prove particularly popular with people looking to visit friends and relatives.”

Lim Ching Kiat, Executive Vice President of Air Hub and Cargo Development at Changi Airport Group said: “We would like to congratulate Turkish Airlines for their inaugural flight to Melbourne. We are happy that Turkish Airlines chose Singapore Changi Airport as the stopover point between Istanbul and Australia. Turkish Airlines’ connecting passengers can be assured that they will be well taken care of, and will be presented with the best Changi Experience during their layover. Changi Airport is Europe’s most served Asian airport, as well as Australia’s busiest international gateway. Our strong network will offer the passengers of Turkish Airlines many options for their onward journeys. We look forward to deepening our partnership with Turkish Airlines.”

Passengers flying with Turkish Airlines can journey from Istanbul to Melbourne between March 1st and March 15th, 2024, for $1199 USD. Conversely, travelers can make the return trip from Melbourne to Istanbul for $999 USD by purchasing tickets between January 19th and April 15th, 2024.

These prices are based on the official website fares of Turkish Airlines and are subject to variation at ticket offices and agencies.

Flight Schedule:

Note: Due to daylight saving time in Australia, there may be time variances.

« Back to Page