Melbourne will host Turkish Airlines first-ever services from Istanbul to Australia, taking flight with three services a week from March 2024.
The city is the latest hub to join Turkish Airlines' expanding network, with the initial launch of three weekly services (via Singapore) expected to be upped to direct services when the airline later bolsters its fleet.
It is a historic move for Australia's largest city, as Turkish Airlines has become the first and only European airline to fly to Melbourne.
Melbourne Airport's chief of aviation, Jim Parashos, said the airport is "thrilled to welcome Turkey Airlines" and explained that "it's no surprise that Turkish Airlines has chosen Melbourne as its first Australian destination, given we are home to the nation's largest Turkish community."
The maiden service will arrive in Melbourne on March 16th.
