Turkish Airlines Business Class Review: Is It Worth the Upgrade?

Introduction

When planning a long-haul flight, many travelers weigh the benefits of upgrading to business class. In this turkish airlines business class review, we dive into the experience offered by Turkish Airlines, one of the world’s largest carriers. Known for connecting over 340 destinations across 130 countries, the airline has built a reputation for blending European efficiency with Middle Eastern hospitality. We draw from recent flights, including routes on the A350-900 and 787-9, to provide factual insights. Whether you’re a business professional jetting between continents or a leisure traveler seeking comfort, this review highlights what sets Turkish Airlines apart.

Turkish Airlines, founded in 1933 as Turkey’s national carrier, has grown from a small fleet to operating over 400 aircraft. By 2026, it boasts awards like Skytrax’s “Best Business Class in Europe” and “World’s Best Business Class Onboard Catering.” Statistics show the airline carried over 85 million passengers in 2025, with business class occupancy rates hovering around 75% on long-haul routes. This growth stems from its hub in Istanbul, which serves as a gateway between East and West.

Background of Turkish Airlines

Turkish Airlines started with just five aircraft, focusing on domestic routes. It expanded internationally in the 1940s and joined Star Alliance in 2008, enhancing global partnerships. Key achievements include being the first airline to fly to all continents and winning multiple Skytrax awards for catering excellence.

The business class product evolved significantly. In the early 2000s, it introduced lie-flat seats on wide-body jets. By 2026, newer aircraft like the A350 and 787 feature modern suites, while older 777s retain a 2-3-2 configuration. The airline invests heavily in fleet renewal, planning to add 150 aircraft by 2030. This commitment ensures consistent quality, though variations exist by plane type.

Key Features of Turkish Airlines Business Class

Travelers choose business class for comfort and perks. Turkish Airlines delivers on both fronts. Let’s break down the essentials.

Seats and Cabin Layout

Seats vary by aircraft, but privacy and space stand out.

• A350-900 Suites: These offer secluded pods with sliding doors for maximum privacy. Each seat converts to a 193 cm lie-flat bed, with direct aisle access in a 1-2-1 staggered setup. Storage includes cupboards for suits and drawers for small items. Electronic controls adjust positions, though side placement can lead to accidental bumps.

• 787-9 Configuration: Similar to the A350, it uses a 1-2-1 layout with lie-flat beds measuring 76 inches. Seats feel sleek and modern, but some report narrowness when fully flat.
• 777-300ER Seats: Older models feature a 2-3-2 arrangement, lacking direct aisle access for all. While comfortable for lounging, middle seats reduce privacy. Pitch is generous at 44 inches.

On average, business class cabins hold 30-49 seats, keeping the environment intimate. Ambient lighting and noise-canceling headphones enhance relaxation.

Inflight Dining Experience

Food ranks as a highlight in any turkish airlines business class review. The airline emphasizes Turkish cuisine with global twists.

• Menu Options: Inflight chefs prepare meals on long-haul flights over seven hours. Starters include meze like hummus and stuffed grape leaves. Mains feature kebabs, grilled fish, or vegetarian options. Desserts range from baklava to fruit platters.
• Service Style: Meals start with a candle-lit setup for a restaurant feel. Buffet trolleys allow custom portions. Breakfasts are substantial, with eggs, pastries, and fresh juices.
• Beverages: A wide selection includes Turkish wines, raki, and international spirits. Non-alcoholic choices like ayran add cultural flair.

Quality shines through local ingredients, with projects promoting Turkish heritage—like bread from ancient grains. Passengers praise the freshness, with 90% satisfaction rates in surveys.

Service and Crew

Crew members train rigorously, delivering attentive service. They greet passengers by name and anticipate needs, such as preparing beds on overnight flights. Uniforms reflect Turkish elegance, and multilingual staff cater to diverse routes.

Quotes from travelers: “The service felt personal, like a high-end hotel,” says one reviewer. In 2025, Turkish Airlines ranked in the top 10 for cabin crew friendliness per Skytrax.

Inflight Entertainment and Connectivity

Entertainment systems boast large screens with over 1,000 options, including movies, TV, and Turkish documentaries. Business class gets 1GB free Wi-Fi, with options to buy more. Connectivity proves reliable, though speeds vary by region.

Amenity Kits and Extras

Kits come in stylish bags with essentials: eye masks, socks, dental kits, and lotions. Slippers and pajamas on ultra-long hauls add comfort. Cultural touches, like story cards on items, promote Turkey.

Lounge Access and Ground Experience

No turkish airlines business class review skips the Istanbul lounge. The flagship Business Lounge spans 6,000 square meters, offering showers, suites, and live cooking stations.

• Features: Multiple dining areas serve Turkish delights and international fare. Relaxation zones include massage chairs and a library. For families, there’s a kids’ area with games.
• Access Tips: Eligible for business class passengers and Miles&Smiles Elite members. Arrive early to enjoy—wait times rarely exceed 10 minutes.

Other hubs like New York or London provide partner lounges, but Istanbul stands out as one of the world’s best.

Pros and Cons

Weigh these to decide if it fits your needs.

Pros

1. Exceptional Catering: Consistently tops charts for flavor and variety.
2. Comfortable Seats on Newer Planes: Privacy doors and lie-flat beds ensure rest.
3. Extensive Network: Fly to niche destinations with seamless connections.
4. Value for Money: Often cheaper than competitors, with fares 20-30% lower on transatlantic routes.
5. Cultural Touches: Enhances the journey with Turkish hospitality.

Cons

1. Outdated Seats on Some Aircraft: 777s lack modern privacy.
2. Limited Wi-Fi: 1GB cap may not suffice for heavy users.
3. Busy Hub: Istanbul Airport crowds can stress short connections.
4. No Dine-on-Demand: Set meal times on some flights.

Comparisons with Competitors

Compared to Emirates or Qatar Airways, Turkish offers similar quality at lower prices. Food rivals Qatar’s, but seats on older fleets lag behind Emirates’ suites. Versus European carriers like Lufthansa, Turkish provides better catering and lounges. Data from 2025 shows Turkish scoring 4.5/5 on TripAdvisor, edging out British Airways’ 4.2.

Tips for Booking and Maximizing Your Experience

Book smart to enhance your trip.

1. Use Miles&Smiles: Redeem points for upgrades—business class awards start at 45,000 miles one-way.
2. Choose Aircraft Wisely: Opt for A350 or 787 routes for best seats.
3. Pack Light: Priority baggage handling speeds arrival.
4. Explore Stopovers: Free Istanbul tours for layovers over six hours.
5. Download App: Track flights and select meals in advance.

For more business travel tips, check out Business to Mark.

Key Highlights from Our Turkish Airlines Business Class Review

This section recaps standout elements. Privacy on the A350 impresses, with doors creating mini-suites. Food storytelling, like historical bread notes, adds depth. Service reassures nervous flyers, and entertainment keeps boredom at bay. Overall, it’s a solid choice for value-driven luxury.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Turkish Airlines business class worth it?

Yes, especially for long hauls. The food and comfort justify the cost, per our turkish airlines business class review.

What aircraft has the best business class seats?

The A350-900 and 787-9 offer superior privacy and space.

Does business class include lounge access?

Absolutely, with the Istanbul lounge being a highlight.

How does the food compare to other airlines?

It’s among the best, with fresh, cultural options outperforming many.

Can I upgrade at the airport?

Yes, subject to availability—bid via the app for best chances.

Conclusion

In wrapping up this turkish airlines business class review, Turkish Airlines delivers a premium experience blending comfort, cuisine, and culture. Strengths like award-winning food and modern seats on new aircraft make it appealing, despite minor cons on older planes. With competitive pricing and a vast network, it’s ideal for global travelers. Have you flown Turkish Airlines business class? Share your thoughts—what route would you try next?

References:

• Allplane.tv Flight Review: Detailed insights on A350-900 experience. Read more
• The Aircraft King: 777-300ER review from IST to ORD.
• LiAnn and Theo: Pros and cons discussion.
• Audience Insights: Targets frequent flyers aged 30-55, business professionals, and luxury seekers valuing value and cultural immersion. High engagement from Europe-Asia routes, per 2025 data showing 60% repeat customers in premium cabins.