Turkish Airlines is exploring the possibility of introducing non-stop flights between Istanbul and Auckland, further expanding its ultra-long-haul network using globe-spanning Airbus A350-1000 jets. This potential route follows the airline’s commitment to launching non-stop flights to Australia, with Sydney slated to begin in late 2025 and Melbourne expected to follow.
Turkish Airlines CEO Bilal Eksi hinted that direct flights to New Zealand could commence as early as 2026. Speaking to Aviation Week journalist Kurt Hofmann aboard the inaugural Istanbul-Sydney flight via Kuala Lumpur, Eksi confirmed the airline is evaluating its options for connecting Istanbul to Auckland. This route would mark another milestone in Turkish Airlines’ strategy to link its Istanbul hub to destinations across the globe.
The Istanbul-Sydney route, which currently includes a stopover in Kuala Lumpur, will transition to a non-stop service in 2026. This change will reduce flight time by approximately three hours, making the journey a more competitive option for travelers.
South America is also on Turkish Airlines’ radar for non-stop service. While flights to Santiago via São Paulo will launch on December 18, Eksi confirmed plans for direct flights to both Santiago and Buenos Aires using the long-range capabilities of the A350-1000.
Turkish Airlines will begin receiving the first of its 15 Airbus A350-1000 aircraft in 2025. These state-of-the-art jets will enable the airline to establish non-stop connections to far-reaching destinations, enhancing its position as a global leader in long-haul travel.
