Turkish Airlines has launched scheduled flights between Istanbul and Chengdu, marking its fourth destination in mainland China. The new route, which began on November 11, will be operated three times a week using Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft. This expansion comes as part of the airline's strategy to strengthen its presence in the Chinese market.
The flight schedule for the Istanbul-Chengdu route has been announced, with flight TK226 departing Istanbul Airport on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays at 02:05, arriving in Chengdu at 15:40 local time. The return flight, TK227, will depart Chengdu on Mondays, Thursdays, and Saturdays at 00:45, landing in Istanbul at 05:55. To celebrate the launch, Turkish Airlines is offering promotional fares from $540 between Istanbul and Chengdu.
Chengdu, the capital of western China's Sichuan Province, is a major hub for trade, logistics, and finance. The city is home to over 21 million people and hosts multinational companies in various industries, including electronics, carmaking, aviation, biotechnology, and artificial intelligence. Chengdu is also recognised by UNESCO as a City of Gastronomy, attracting millions of visitors each year with its Sichuan cuisine and giant panda breeding and research base.
Murat Şeker, chairman of the board and executive committee of Turkish Airlines, highlighted the strategic importance of China among the airline's key markets. He expressed confidence that the new route will contribute to the growth of commercial, cultural, and tourism ties between Türkiye and China. Turkish Airlines, a member of the Star Alliance, operates a fleet of 571 passenger and cargo aircraft, serving 359 destinations in 133 countries.
The addition of the Istanbul-Chengdu route brings Turkish Airlines' total number of destinations in mainland China to four, including Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou. This expansion is part of the airline's efforts to strengthen its presence in the region and provide more travel options for its customers. The airline's growing network in China is expected to facilitate increased trade, tourism, and cultural exchange between the two countries.
Turkish Airlines' new route to Chengdu offers passengers a unique opportunity to experience the city's rich cultural heritage and natural attractions. The airline's commitment to providing high-quality service and competitive fares is expected to make the route a popular choice for travellers. With its extensive network and modern fleet, Turkish Airlines is well-positioned to cater to the growing demand for air travel between Türkiye and China.
As Turkish Airlines continues to expand its global network, the airline remains focused on providing exceptional service to its customers. With its latest route launch, the airline has demonstrated its commitment to connecting people and cultures around the world. The Istanbul-Chengdu route is expected to play a significant role in promoting tourism, trade, and economic cooperation between Türkiye and China.
Key points
- Turkish Airlines launches Istanbul-Chengdu flights, its fourth route to mainland China.
- The new route will be operated three times a week using Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft.
- Chengdu is a major hub for trade, logistics, and finance, and is recognised by UNESCO as a City of Gastronomy.
