turkish airlines Flight Booking

About Turkish Airlines (TK) Flights

Turkish Airlines is the flag carrier of the Republic of Türkiye and one of Europe’s largest airlines. It operates a fleet of around 407 aircraft including Airbus A320 family (A319, A320, A321neo), Airbus A330, Airbus A350-900, Boeing 737 series, Boeing 777-300ER, and Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner. The airline serves 300+ destinations across more than 120 countries, making it the airline with the most international destinations worldwide. Its primary hub is Istanbul Airport (IST), with secondary hubs at Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen (SAW), Ankara Esenboga (ESB), and Antalya (AYT). Founded in 1933, Turkish Airlines is a member of the Star Alliance.

Passengers flying with Turkish Airlines can choose from Economy Class and Business Class. Services include online check-in, mobile app check-in, airport kiosks, frequent-flyer rewards through the Miles&Smiles program, in-flight Wi-Fi, and extensive entertainment options. Boarding passes are issued after completing the check-in process.

Turkish Airlines has global codeshare connectivity, operating both domestic and international flights with extensive coverage across Europe, North America, Latin America, Asia, and Africa.

Major codeshare partners include:

• Lufthansa
• United Airlines
• Singapore Airlines
• ANA (All Nippon Airways)
• Thai Airways
• Asiana Airlines
• EgyptAir
• Air China
• Ethiopian Airlines
• LOT Polish Airlines

Turkish Airlines Check-In and Boarding Process

With Turkish Airlines, passengers receive their boarding pass only after completing check-in.

Ways To Check-In

• Online check-in via mobile or desktop (available 24 hours before departure).
• Mobile app check-in with digital boarding pass.
• Airport kiosks for self-service check-in and bag tags.
• Counter check-in with staff assistance.

Boarding Time and Check-In Requirements

• Online check-in is available from 24 hours up to 90 minutes before international flights and 45 minutes before domestic flights.
• Airport check-in counters close 60 minutes before international flights and 45 minutes before domestic flights.
• Passengers should arrive at least 2–3 hours before international flights to allow time for security and immigration.
• Boarding begins 45 minutes before departure and closes 15–20 minutes prior.

Boarding Pass Options

• Mobile boarding pass – convenient and easy to access on your smartphone.
• Printed boarding pass – reliable for long journeys or connecting flights when phone battery may run low.

Business Class Check-In

• Dedicated Business Class check-in counters are available at Istanbul Airport (IST), Sabiha Gökçen (SAW), and major international airports.
• Personalized service from Turkish Airlines agents for baggage and travel needs.
• Direct access to priority security lanes reduces wait times.
• Priority baggage tagging ensures faster delivery at baggage claim.

Curbside Check-In

• Turkish Airlines does not generally offer curbside check-in worldwide.
• Limited curbside check-in is available at select partner airports in North America.
• Counters are located outside the terminal, near the departure curb.
• Passengers can check bags (with tags applied), print boarding passes, and receive seat assignments (if available).
• International flights generally require check-in inside the terminal.
• No extra fee for curbside check-in itself; standard baggage fees still apply.

What To Do If a Boarding Pass Is Lost?

A boarding pass is essential for travel with Turkish Airlines, as it contains your flight number, departure gate, boarding time, and destination details. If you misplace your boarding pass, Turkish Airlines can quickly reissue it at the counter or via self-service kiosks.

Steps To Recover a Lost Boarding Pass

• Report immediately to the Turkish Airlines check-in counter and request a new boarding pass.
• Provide valid government ID and flight details to verify your booking.
• Use a self-service kiosk at the airport to reprint your boarding pass in minutes.
• If you have a mobile boarding pass, simply show it at security or re-download/reprint it if needed.
• If you are already inside the airport, approach the Turkish Airlines gate agent for assistance and boarding pass re-printing.

Turkish Airlines Boarding Zones

Pre-boarding is offered to travelers who require special assistance, including passengers with disabilities and families traveling with young children. Passengers should arrive early and notify staff to access pre-boarding.

• Group 1: Boards first and includes Business Class passengers. Passengers should use the priority lane for faster boarding.
• Group 2: Reserved for Miles&Smiles Elite Plus members (top-tier frequent flyers). Show your Elite Plus status at the gate to board early.
• Group 3: Covers Miles&Smiles Elite members (second-tier frequent flyers). These passengers board after Group 2.
• Group 4: Economy Class passengers, generally boarded rear-to-front to reduce aisle congestion. Follow gate announcements based on seat location.

Turkish Airlines Baggage Policy

Turkish Airlines allows passengers to carry baggage while maintaining safety and comfort for all travelers. The allowance depends on the route, cabin class, and Miles&Smiles frequent flyer membership level. The baggage policy is divided into three main categories: personal baggage, carry-on baggage, and checked baggage.

Personal Baggage

• All passengers are allowed one personal item free of charge.
• This may include a handbag, laptop bag, small backpack, or similar item.
• The item must fit under the seat in front of you.
• Recommended dimensions: up to 17 × 13 × 8 inches (43 × 33 × 20 cm).

Carry-On Baggage

• One carry-on bag is generally allowed along with a personal item, depending on cabin class.
• The bag must fit in the overhead bin.
• Maximum dimensions: 22 × 16 × 9 inches (55 × 40 × 23 cm) including handles and wheels.
• Economy Class passengers: 1 cabin bag up to 17 lbs (8 kg).
• Business Class passengers: 2 cabin bags up to 17 lbs (8 kg) each.

Checked Baggage

• Economy Class passengers: 44–66 lbs (20–30 kg), depending on fare type and route.
• Business Class passengers: 66–88 lbs (30–40 kg), depending on route.
• Overweight and oversized bags incur additional charges.
• Bags exceeding standard limits may not be accepted at the counter.

Additional Policies

• Extra baggage can be purchased online, via the app, or at the airport.
• Buying baggage in advance is cheaper than paying at the airport.
• Overweight and oversized bags incur additional charges.
• All items must be packed securely inside proper luggage.

Pet Carriers

• Turkish Airlines allows pets in the cabin if the combined weight of the pet and carrier does not exceed 17 lbs (8 kg).
• The carrier must not exceed 23 × 30 × 40 cm and must fit under the seat.
• Larger pets must travel in the cargo hold.
• Assistance dogs travel free of charge in the cabin.
• A pet fee is paid at check-in depending on size, weight, and destination.

Turkish Airlines Hubs and Top Routes

Istanbul Airport (IST)

Istanbul Airport (IST) is Turkish Airlines’ primary hub and one of the busiest airports in the world. The airline operates the majority of its long-haul and international services from IST, using state-of-the-art facilities including multiple concourses, luxury lounges, and direct metro access. Premium passengers enjoy fast-track immigration and direct boarding from lounges. Passengers will typically connect through IST for most long-haul journeys.

• Top Route: Istanbul (IST) to New York JFK (JFK)

Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW)

Located on Istanbul’s Asian side, SAW serves as a secondary hub focusing on domestic and short-haul international flights. The airport offers modern facilities and lounges, making it convenient for travelers in eastern Istanbul. It is primarily used for regional connections across Europe and the Middle East.

• Top Route: Istanbul (SAW) to Berlin Brandenburg (BER)

Ankara Esenboga Airport (ESB)

Ankara Esenboga (ESB) connects Türkiye’s capital city to domestic and select international destinations. It supports regional connectivity and government travel, with frequent flights to Istanbul and other major Turkish cities.

• Top Route: Ankara (ESB) to Frankfurt (FRA)

Antalya Airport (AYT)

Antalya Airport (AYT) is a seasonal hub handling heavy holiday traffic. It focuses on European charter and tourist routes, especially during the summer months. Facilities include lounges and shopping with easy access to resort areas.

• Top Route: Antalya (AYT) to Moscow (SVO)

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Fleet Size and Aircraft Operated by Turkish Airlines?

Turkish Airlines operates a fleet of around 407 aircraft. The fleet includes Airbus A320 family, A330, A350-900, Boeing 737 series, 777-300ER, and 787-9 Dreamliner. Narrow-body aircraft are used for short-haul routes while wide-body aircraft serve long-haul journeys.

What Is the On-Time Performance Record of Turkish Airlines?

Turkish Airlines’ on-time performance averages near 80%, though this varies by season and weather. It is recommended to check flight status via the app before heading to the airport.

How Safe Is Turkish Airlines?

Turkish Airlines has a strong safety record and is consistently ranked among the safest airlines worldwide. The carrier adheres to strict international safety standards and rigorous maintenance protocols.

How Many Passengers Does Turkish Airlines Carry Annually?

Turkish Airlines carries approximately 75 million passengers per year (2025 figures), ranking it as one of the largest international airlines by passenger volume.

Does Turkish Airlines Allow Pets on Flights?

Yes, pets are permitted in the cabin if the combined weight of pet and carrier is 17 lbs (8 kg) or less. Recognized assistance dogs travel free of charge. Larger pets must travel via Turkish Airlines Cargo.

Does Turkish Airlines Provide Wheelchair Assistance?

Yes, Turkish Airlines provides wheelchair assistance. Requests can be made during booking, via the app, or at the airport. It is advised to request this service in advance for smooth boarding.

Does Turkish Airlines Offer Discounts for Military, Students, or Seniors?

Turkish Airlines does not offer broad discounts for these groups similar to U.S. carriers. However, special fares and benefits may be available through the Miles&Smiles program or specific promotional offers.

What Is Turkish Airlines’ Policy for Pregnant Passengers?

Pregnant women can fly unrestricted until 28 weeks. Between 28 and 36 weeks, a medical certificate confirming fitness to fly is required. Travel is not permitted after the 36th week of pregnancy.