Turkish Airlines may seem costly due to several factors, including demand, supply, and the quality of services offered. While these are the primary reasons, there are additional minor factors that contribute to the overall pricing. However, it’s not entirely accurate to say Turkish Airlines is expensive across the board.
Ticket prices vary depending on the route and fare type, with different destinations and services affecting costs. For instance, many domestic and U.S. routes are relatively affordable, indicating that Turkish Airlines can also be budget-friendly. Thus, perceptions of whether Turkish Airlines is cheap or expensive can vary based on specific routes and services.
6 Reasons Why Turkish Airlines are So Expensive
- High Demand
- Turkish Airlines Fleet
- Quality and Premium Services
- Economy Class competing premium Economy
- Additional Charges
- Operational from largest Hubs of Istanbul
1.High Demand
When demand is high and seat availability is limited, prices tend to rise because consumers are willing to pay more. This principle applies to Turkish Airlines, which serves over 200 destinations globally, including both prominent and lesser-known locations. Prices increase for flights to popular destinations with limited seat availability.
Conversely, routes to popular destinations with ample seating tend to be cheaper, such as those to the United States and other well-served locations.
For less popular destinations with minimal competition, Turkish Airlines may also charge higher prices due to the lack of alternatives.
2. Turkish Airlines Fleet
Another factor contributing to the higher cost of Turkish Airlines flights is its fleet, which includes some of the newest and most technologically advanced aircraft. The airline exclusively operates well-known Boeing and Airbus models, including the Boeing Dreamliners and 777s.
The advanced technology and modern amenities of these aircraft contribute to the higher ticket prices.
3. Quality and Premium Services
From ground services to boarding and landing, Turkish Airlines maintains a high standard of quality and service, which is reflected in its ticket prices. With a network covering over 200 destinations, the airline’s extensive reach contributes to the higher costs.
Additional factors influencing the higher ticket prices for Turkish Airlines include:
(a) Dining
When discussing the factors that contribute to higher ticket prices for Turkish Airlines, its dining services are a key consideration. Economy class passengers enjoy a diverse, restaurant-style menu, while business class travelers benefit from meals prepared by renowned chefs for a premium experience throughout the journey.
Additionally, passengers have access to food in the lounges and resting areas.
(b) Staff
Services are incomplete without a dedicated team to deliver them. Turkish Airlines stands out in a crowded industry thanks to its highly trained and disciplined staff, who have garnered excellent passenger feedback and received international recognition and awards for their exceptional service.
(c) Safety
APEX, an independent international organization that gathers customer feedback and assesses airlines on safety and overall performance, has awarded Turkish Airlines a five-star rating for five consecutive years. Additionally, Turkish Airlines recently received three other APEX awards, including the newly introduced World Class Ratings award, recognizing its exceptional services and positive customer feedback.
Another factor contributing to the higher price of Turkish Airlines is its membership with the International Air Transport Association (IATA). This membership is granted only to airlines that meet stringent international safety protocols.
4. Economy Class competing premium Economy
Premium economy, a popular trend offering additional services while keeping prices between standard economy and business class, provides extra comfort at a more affordable rate.
Unlike other airlines that charge extra for premium economy sections with additional legroom and amenities, Turkish Airlines offers similar or even superior seating and dining options within its standard economy cabin. The high cost of Turkish Airlines’ economy tickets reflects the quality of these competitive services.
Although the airline once introduced a premium cabin, it was later withdrawn due to operational inefficiencies and concerns.
5. Additional Charges
Additional services such as Wi-Fi, reservation changes, and cancellation fees contribute to the overall cost of flying with Turkish Airlines, even though the ticket prices themselves are comparable to those of other airlines. These extra charges can be a factor leading to higher overall costs.
6. Operational from largest Hubs of Istanbul
As the national carrier of Istanbul, Turkish Airlines operates from the enormous Istanbul Airport, which is the largest in the world. Opened in 2019, the airport features a vast terminal with approximately 143 aerobridges, eliminating the need for interconnected movements within the terminal.
Passengers experience a smooth, luxurious journey starting at the airport, where grand lounges await. The cost of these premium services is reflected in ticket prices. To cover the growing costs of production and maintain profitability, Turkish Airlines continues to be on the pricier side.
Additionally, with Istanbul serving as a major hub for the airline, all passengers get to experience the grandeur of this massive airport.
Concluding Para
Firstly, it’s important to note that not all fare types with Turkish Airlines are expensive. While the airline is often associated with higher fares, it also offers more affordable ticket options. The reasons behind both the expensive and cheaper tickets are numerous, but there are no specific, officially recognized explanations from the airline or authoritative institutions.
The factors mentioned above are general and based on standard pricing economics that apply to all airlines. There may be additional reasons contributing to higher ticket prices, but the outlined points are broadly definitive.
FAQs
You can check in online through the Turkish Airlines website or mobile app starting 24 hours before your flight’s departure. Alternatively, you can check in at the airport using self-service kiosks or at the Turkish Airlines check-in counters.
Turkish Airlines’ baggage allowance varies based on your route and class of travel. Generally, Economy Class passengers can bring one piece of checked baggage up to 23 kg (50 lbs), while Business Class passengers are allowed two pieces, each up to 32 kg (70 lbs). Always check your booking for specific details.
You can request a special meal during the booking process or by modifying your booking online up to 24 hours before departure. Turkish Airlines offers a wide range of special meal options, including vegetarian, vegan, kosher, and gluten-free meals.
You can contact Turkish Airlines via their customer service hotline, live chat on their website, or social media channels. The contact numbers vary by region, so visit the Turkish Airlines website for the appropriate contact information for your country.
You can reach Turkish Airlines for upgrade inquiries by calling their customer service at +1-888-457-2304 or visiting their official website at Turkish Airlines. They also offer a live chat feature and email support for direct assistance.
