Turkish Airlines is moving forward with plans to launch nonstop flights between Istanbul and Sydney, a route expected to become the longest flight in the airline’s history.
The carrier aims to begin operating the ultra long-haul service by the end of 2027 using specially configured Airbus A350-1000ULR aircraft designed for extremely long routes.
If launched as planned, the route would connect Türkiye and Australia with a flight lasting up to 19 hours.
19-Hour Flight Would Become Turkish Airlines’ Longest Route
According to Turkish Airlines Chairman and Executive Committee President Murat Åžeker, the planned route between Istanbul Airport and Sydney Kingsford Smith Airport would cover approximately 9,300 miles.
The proposed service would surpass all existing routes in the airline’s network and become one of the world’s longest scheduled flights.
Åžeker discussed the project during the International Air Transport Association annual meeting held in Rio de Janeiro.
The airline currently serves Sydney with one-stop services but plans to eliminate the intermediate stop once suitable aircraft arrive.
Special Airbus Aircraft Will Enable Nonstop Service
The project depends heavily on deliveries of Airbus A350-1000ULR aircraft.
Turkish Airlines ordered 15 Airbus A350-1000 aircraft in 2023.
According to company executives, eight of these aircraft are expected to be delivered in ultra long-range configuration.
The final technical specifications are still being finalized.
The A350-1000ULR variant is specifically designed for extremely long flights through additional fuel capacity and operational modifications.
Qantas Delays Highlight Aircraft Challenges
The renewed attention around Turkish Airlines’ Sydney ambitions comes after delays affecting similar aircraft deliveries elsewhere.
Australian carrier Qantas recently pushed back launch timelines for Project Sunrise, its program aimed at operating nonstop flights from Sydney to London and New York.
Those delays were partly linked to the same Airbus A350-1000ULR program.
Despite these challenges, Turkish Airlines says it continues preparing for deliveries expected next year.
Ultra Long-Haul Competition Continues Expanding
The nonstop Sydney route reflects growing competition among airlines investing in ultra long-haul flying.
Such routes allow airlines to bypass traditional transit hubs while offering passengers faster journeys and eliminating connections.
For Turkish Airlines, the service would also strengthen Istanbul’s position as a major global aviation hub linking Europe, Asia and Oceania.
If introduced by late 2027, the Istanbul-Sydney service would become one of the longest nonstop commercial flights operating anywhere in the world.
