Turkey has been in the news a lot recently — with terrorist attacks in Istanbul, a failed coup d’état last weekend, and a temporary ban on all non-stop flights from Istanbul to the USA, many are wisely questioning whether it is safe to travel to Turkey or even to fly Turkish Airlines.
Let’s first start with what should be an elementary distinction — flying Turkish Airlines is a lot different than visiting Turkey. While I look forward to my upcoming trip to Istanbul, the U.S. State Department has urged U.S. citizens to “reconsider travel to Turkey at this time” and the reason is clear — civil unrest always put visitors at increased risk.
I’m not going to pull the usual comparative numbers people like to cite (like 33 people shot in Chicago last weekend) or lecture you on living in fear and letting the terrorists win, I will simply speak from the viewpoint of someone who has recently traveled to Istanbul on Turkish Airlines, will do it again soon, and has no fear over my security or safety.
You have to understand something about Ataturk International Airport, Istanbul’s main international airport and fortress hub of Turkish Airlines — it is very secure. Remember that terrorist attack at the airport a couple weeks back? The terrorists never even got past the front door.
At Istanbul, you are screened three times prior to your flight — first as you are coming into the airport, then again after passport control, and finally once more before your flight on U.S. bound journeys. The terrorists walked into the arrival’s hall and when they could not get past the first layer of security, they detonated their bombs. 41 were killed, but the safety of those on the secure side of the airport was not at risk. No transit passengers were ever in danger.
Consider the PR problems Turkish Airlines and the Turkish government now face — do you really think that security at the airport would not become even tighter? It has — cars are now checked for bombs as they enter the airport premises. Ataturk Airport is one of the safest airports in the world.
If that were the end of the story then I still would not blame you for still opting to avoid Istanbul, but that is only half the story. The other half is Turkish Airlines, one of my favorite airlines’ in the world, an airline that offers a remarkable onboard product and a superb ground experience in Istanbul, especially for premium passengers.
Turkish Airlines’ Istanbul hub is home to the best business class lounge in the world, which has been reviewed many times on this site.
Onboard, Turkish has a comfortable lie-flat bed in business class and some of the best airline food in the sky.
And with a robust route network to many U.S. cities and excellent award space, Turkish is one of the best ways to use your miles wisely.
So let’s review–Turkey is going through a volatile time, but the main airport in Istanbul is safer than it has ever been with transit passengers facing virtually no risk. Turkish Airlines provides a superior product both on the ground and in the air and offers attractive pricing and plenty of award space paired with an unbelievable route map to destinations around the world. There is no perfect security in this world and to reject Turkish Airlines because of the broader narrative unfolding in Turkey is both foolish and unecessary.
Thanks for the comment. You can’t say that No transit passengers were ever in danger – perhaps that no transit passengers were injured but the entire airport was in danger.
The argument that increased security at an airport makes it a safer airport is also a logical fallacy. Consider Peoria International Airport – they have some of the most lax security of any international airport I’ve ever visited. Does this make them a dangerous airport to visit? No, because the threat from outside the airport is relatively low.
Conversely, having higher security in Ataturk Airport does not make it a safer airport, just that it is responding to a higher level of perceived threat.
Turkish Airlines is worse than the Turkish prisons.
You take your life in your hands buying a ticket and chances are good your bags will be lost and your survivors will never recover them.
STAY AWAY and write to your congressmen to bar Turkish Airlines flights from US airspace!
Turkish Airlines is great value for money, new aircrafts , nice professional and extremely good manners crew, even on domestic cheap flight you get great service.
Clearly a biased axe to grind.
Maybe your boyfriend /girlfriend ran off with a Turkish airlines FA ?
I’ve always found Turkish Airlines to be excellent.
I travel in Turkish airlines often. I find it is a good airline to travel with they are very caring and kind with consideration.the comments of some people are sometimes exaggerated.if you travel with some European airlines you get some passengers are shit to travel with they demand a lot of alcohol and even they have alcohol problems.they think it is their previous bed to annoy other’ passengers.some passengers are selfish they cause the problem s on board the aircraft carrier.
I travelled about a dozen times by Turkish air, its pretty safe comfortable nice professional crew, tasty food as good as it can be.
I have traveled on Turkish Airlines many times. Great service and friendly crew. The executive lounge at Attaturk Airport is indeed one of the best in the world..
Totally agree with Matthew. Flown more than a dozen times in 2018 HAM-IST. @Jaffo, btw I left my laptop computer in business class seat, realized after checking in IST Hotel. Drove back to the airport, took an hour to locate lost & found desk. Guess what? Computer was right there waiting for me wish a label attached… „belongs to Mr. (me..), found on 4K“….
I will CHOOSE to believe the writer of this article because FACTS were cited in the article and all you did was rant an OPINION.
1) Since when has casual dress been equated with homelessness? The man was wearing BRAND NEW SNEAKERS/SHOES, when last have you seen a homeless man wearing Brand new designer shoes? When Last have you seen a Homeless man wearing Brand New designer Shoes, a Brand New Sweater and talking on a CELL PHONE?— Some of the richest white people Dress like they are Homeless….lol…he was dressed no different than say a Mark Zuckerberg, or a Steve Jobs, only better—-some of the Richest white people i know regularly wear Five year old beaten up tennis shoes and ripped acid washed jeans casually .
2)You claim he had his feet propped up on the couch, but i cant find this in any official news report.I have not seen any video footage of him doing so. If you can find an official statement of some sort from mr.Massey or the hotel expressing this idea please share, or maybe you have a link to a video displaying him doing so.
3)”Rather than head upstairs, he sat down in the lobby to take a call”, as a paying customer he has every right to take a phone call in the lobby.
4)you stated in your article, “Massey became annoyed and asked the guard to leave him alone”. Again where did you get these “Facts” from? Massey according to all reports, responded to earl the security guard by informing he was in fact a guest but did not remember his room number [This has happened to me before, more than once-causing me to have to go to the front desk to ask them for my room number]. All this after having his phone call rudely interrupted. Earl could have easily corroborated this fact with the font desk. In the extended video Mr.Massey tells the Police officer that he showed Earl his key, and that they have video cameras in the lobby that he can surely check to verify that he indeed did so.
5) You stated in your article ” The security Guards reaction on video SUGGESTS that massey had not produced it [Room number/Key] earlier”… This is the reaction of a man who as already committed to “kicking him out” of the establishment and has already got the management and police involved. Why would he react any different, especially knowing he is now on camera?
6)If the hotel has a homeless problem, then maybe EVERY guest should be stopped and questioned, especially the ones getting on the elevators going upstairs where the security of the guest and their properties are most at risk. If the City has a homelessness problem to that degree a better system can and should be put in place that does not single out guest on the sole descretion of prejudice security.
7)You claim he was sitting in a PRIVATE part of the lobby….lol.. where did you get this from? Private?…. The lobby is the most public space of any hotel! Yes, it maybe a private property [The hotel] but mr.Massey contracted with the property owners to use their private property temporarily as a tenant at a cost which he paid in full. I do not recall anyone of the employees in the video claiming that the lobby is off limits to guest. Was there a sign saying “Lobby Private-No Guests allowed”?
8) you say “he was certainly singled out out for sitting in a desserted part of the lobby late at night”. There is all kinds of activity going on around them in the video although late night, people walking around and the like , hotels are a 24 hour business. Was he supposed to find the most populated area.. the Bar maybe.. to have private quiet conversation with his Mother who was having some kind of health emergency.
9) you say in one of the videos he admits “he appeared suspicious”. Really? when? where?…
10) Mathew I think you are in need of “implicit bias training” yourself. You obviously do not “get it”. You have the same implicit Bias and racial biases as all three of these weak minded men unjust men in the video who attempted to devalue and dehumanize mr. Massey. The bigger problem is that you are not even aware of it.
MONEY STOLEN IN FLIGHT FROM HAND CARRY – BE AWARE – YOUR ARE FLYING WITH THIEF’S’
Travelling date Date: January 23rd, 2019
Flight – (KHI-IST) TK-079 and (IST-MIA) TK-077
Flight Time: 6:25 am (KHI-IST)
I was traveling back to U.S. from Pakistan (Jinnah International with my family on 1/23/2019 flight TK-079 at 6:25am departing from Jinnah International Airport on Turkish Airline, while at in flight I put my hand bag on over head compartment, the american currency in my possession; a total of $7,085 dollars all in $100 bills were replaced with $1 dollar bills in the total amount of $33 dollars and another envelope with U.S Currency 3385.00 USD replaced with papers in my personal backpack.
The $1 dollar bills and blank papers were placed exactly the same way I had the $100 dollar bills in three different envelopes in my backpack.
I demand CCTV camera in all passenger Cabins to secure their valuables and belongings,
So sad to note that while flying from Pakistan , someone stole your money . from Pakistan. Pakistan . from Pakistan. yeah ? Pakistan . Okay .
The same thing happened with me recently while flying with Turkish Airlines (Istanbul to KHI). several complaints were lodged including at the time of landing when i noticed someone stole money from my handbag in cabin, at their offices but they are just quiet
First of all, I’ve traveled atleast 60 times from Pakistan to Istanbul in the last 5 years using Turkish Airlines and this has never ever happened. Secondly, you trying to take more than $10,000 in cash is already illegal as it is. You are not allowed to carry more than $10,000 in cash from Pakistan to any country in the world. Thirdly, you are responsible for your hand carry baggage and not your airlines, the airline is responsible for you luggage not your hand carry. It is you who has to take care of it at all times.
It’s not illegal to carry over 10k. You only have to declare it.
I agree they need to keep all valuables on their person, in their control.
Some of you guys are lying in the sake of damaging the Turkish Airlines great reputation all over the world. It’s absolutely safe to travel with Turkish Airlines. I’ve been working with almost 400 over airline companies for the last 6.5 years. Any further question or comparison info I have can be shared via e-mail just kindly ask.
I think TK is the most overrated airline in the world. The business seats suck.. Yes I said it. They are from the 90s and aren’t competitive with the new herringbone or reverse herringbone layout. The cabin has been kept to ungodly hot levels… The last flight I took my thermometer and it read 82F. That’s just ridiculous. I was drenched in sweat with shorts on. The service is generally ok but not as attentive and efficient as others claim.
True, the food is outstanding. I did have one of the best lamb shanks I’ve ever had on a TK flight. And the lounge in IST is amazing… But I’d rather get a decent meal on another airline where I can rest comfortably In semi private flat bed seat and not have to backtrack to anywhere in Europe.
The security situation doesn’t deter me – my prior experiences with TK do!
Never say never, but things in the country are still too uncertain for me. By the way, the experiences of those who were transiting through IST at the time as recounted on FT still indicate that it was no picnic, even in the TK lounge.
I just had an amazing flight on Turkish. We flew from New York to Tokyo the long way via Istanbul and it was really great. The seat was comfortable and transformed into a full bed and the lounge was great with really good food and refreshing showers.
JJ, I don’t understand why you had bad temperatures on your flights. If anything, the cabins were cool on my flights.
I also have not had warm cabins.
Do you have any recommendations for upgrading to business class without spending a fortune? We’re flying to Greece in September and I’m interested in your recommendations. Thanks in advance.
The best bet is to redeem miles for a business class ticket (not upgrade). Did you book your ticket with miles or cash?
Hello Mathew ! Im currently in Dubai traveling tomorrow ro Rome with a two hour layover in Istambul , Im traveling with an USA passport it is safe for layovers due to the recent news
Yes, layovers will not be an issue.
Yes its safe because you are flying with USA passport. Just remember to keep that USA passport in your breest pocket , When someone sh00t you, it will stop the buIIet
Flying Turkish is not safe, because recent accidents demonstrate complete lack of safety culture. Look up what haooened in AER, NCE, AMS and KTM… what’s next? In addition, Turkey does not make accident reports public, so how many accident we do not know about?
Whether speaking statistically on a risk-comparison basis (like versus driving a car) or simply at the aggregate of safe flights versus crashes, you are safer on Turkish Airlines than walking to your neighborhood grocery store.
Actually. . .this isn’t true. It might be safer PER MILE TRAVELLED to fly Turkish Airways than to walk to your neighborhood grocery store; however, when you’re walking to your neighborhood grocery story you might only be traveling 0.25 miles, while when flying, you are likely to fly thousands of miles. So you are actually way more likely to die traveling on a 2,000 mile Turkish Airways flight than on a single 0.25 mile walk down the street. The risk, however, is still incredibly small, and this would be true about any airline.
flight accidents not being reported to public??? so, probably there are many flight accidents the public does not know about??? Sir, we are not talking about bicycle accidents…nor your country whichever it is. It is very unfair and a shame to make such a serious allegation without a clue, let alone an evidence. Luckily, it is so absurd and well beyond any credibility. If you have any grudges against the country or the airline, ty something better.
Hi, I am looking at Flying to India on Turkish. There would be a Stopover at IST. I am flying alone with my kids. Should I go ahead and book it? I am skeptical. Please provide your input for flying in 2017
I believe you should book and will have a wonderful journey. I flew Turkish many times in 2016 and had great experiences. My first trip in 2017 will not be until April, but I am looking forward to it.
hello i am flying to Tel Aviv from Boston. book TK Airway?
Yes. Connection in Istanbul is easy. The only concern: no electronics larger than your cell phone.
Hi Matthew, my daughter (she’s 23) will be taking her first trip out of the US in August. She’s flying to Dubai (opinion on her safety while visiting?) and she has 2 flight options – Turkish with a 6 hour layover in Istanbul, or Virgin airline with a 4 hour layover in London. As a first time traveler, which option do you feel would be best/safest for her? Thanks!
Hi…is this still true. Flying TA SFO-TLV in March 2018 and always fly with my mini iPad for reading. No pad, or kindle?
All electronic devices are now permitted.
Thank you so much Matthew. I am very grateful. Your answer put me at ease.
I am flying out to Dalaman in 3 days time, with a stop over at IST. I have been to Turkey 9 times in the last 6 years and loved every second, although have never experienced Istanbul. With the recent goings on, I have to admit I’m a little nervous. Travelling alone is scary enough, but to a place I’ve never been before, with so much recent volatility, my mind is playing all sorts and I’m becoming a little stressed, when I should be excited for my countdown. Can’t help but always question “what if?” Is there anything I can do to put my mind at ease and travel with confidence?
Dear Ashleigh, how long will you be in Istanbul? If it will make you feel better, you can avoid the Grand Bazaar / Sultanahmet area — that is where almost all the terror in Istanbul.I would still go, but if it would put your mind at ease, just stay in the area around the Istiklal Caddesi area which is quite vibrant and has not had any incidents. To be clear, I think the Grand Bazaar is very safe and I would not hesitate to go.
You need to update this article !!!
Have anyone flown to Nepal by Turkey’s air? And how is it comfort, safety and on time flight. Your reccommendation would be very helpful.
Many thanks
Kamal
My sister-in-law flew from Basel to Istanbul to Kathmandu and had a very pleasant experience, despite a delay. She ran into a weather delay on the way there due to heavy fog in Kathmandu and Turkish put her in a four star hotel even though it was a weather delay (not the faulty of Turkish). No delays for the return journey.
That flight always circled for a few hours in the winter. It had a 0625 arrival to a normally fog bound airport. We had to switch from Star Alliance because the flight was always late outbound and couldn’t make any connections to North America. I think they have modified the time block now, but we have switched to Etihad in the winter and Finnair/British Airways or Lufthansa in the summer. And we are not switching back. But if you come to Kathmandu, you can visit the theme park built around the carcass of the crashed TK flight, opening soon.
Hi, I am booked for a trip to Istanbul on Feb 21st. With all that is going on I am really stressing myself out. Its a 10 day trip. Engagement party with family then off to cappadocia. Should I just cancel? Is it safe for Americans in Turkey. I know they were not one of the countries that were on the ban list but you can never be too careful. I am Muslim, but I am also American first.
Hi Marjie. Thanks for your comment. I would not cancel. I am an American and was in Istanbul four times over the last year. With political unrest from within and nearby Syria, Turkey has had a tough time, but I would never cancel your trip. Turkey’s very life-blood is dependent upon tourism and it is doing everything it can to keep its citizens and tourists safe. All problems have been in certain neighborhoods of Istanbul (Sultanahmet) and in the capital city of Ankara. Cappadocia will be so beautiful. Don’t miss it.
In IMHO , stay away from Turkey . And those that are in Turkey should should stay away from USA . Just stay where you are , enjoy your surroundings and promote the toruism in your country . Both USA and Turkey are crazy countries .
I wonder what TA safety record is aside from terrorism concerns, just the safety record of the airline in general. Everyone already knows statistics of flying versus driving to the airport, That’s apples and oranges. An aircraft accident is likely to be horribly fatal versus a car wreck or mechanical trouble where you can pull off to the side of the road.
How’s the leg room on Turkish Airlines Boeing 777-300ER and Airbus A321? I have long legs ands it’s a long trip.
777-300ER is lie-flat seating, A321 is just recliners. Legroom great on both aircraft.
Thank you for your kind post. While you address concerns topside one of the biggest concerns when I travel is the security for cargo/luggage. Many, many airports are very lax. In Canada we have been paying a safety tax for many years ostensibly to pay for X-ray machines. From what I understand there are still very few X-ray machines in Toronto Pearson and staff can come and go as they please. It is a miracle no incidents have happened to date. Hence my concern for IST.
Thinking of going to Rome and flights I’m seeing are with Turkish Airways. Layover in Istanbul before connecting to Rome. How safe is it and do you recommend this with a family of 4? Coming from New York to Istanbul then on to Rome
I believe it is very safe — I would take my wife and newborn on the asme trip. The transit experience is great in Istanbul, as you will find out. Plenty of shops and restaurants, all reasonably priced. If you are flying business, the lounge is tremendous.
Thank you so much for your input. If we did a 17 hour layover what would you recommend for us to do? Sights to see quickly.
Go into town and check out the Grand Bazaar, Hagia Sophia and the Basilica Cistern — my three favorite things to do in Istanbul.
Matthew,
I’m a bit confused, you told Marjie to avoid the Grand Bazaar back in feb 2.17 so should it be avoided or not?
I told her to avoid it if it would make her feel better, but there is no rational reason to avoid it.
Hello, my mom is thinking about taking a flight to Istanbul this weekend and then a connecting flight to Greece to see her sick mom, as there are no direct flights to Athens this time of year. I am a bit worried about the safety and security of Turkish Airways, Neither of us have ever flown with that airline. Also, she would have about an hour layover in between flights, do the flights typically run on time from JFK to IST?
I would have no worries over safety, though Turkish often runs late. Good news is that there are frequent Turkish flights to Athens so if she arrives late into Istanbul she can catch the next one. But Turkish will be a comfortable experience.
@Brandy: I certainly would not avoid it. But that area is more prone to an attack than the other parts of town I mentioned. Still, we are talking risk vs. reward and the reality is the risk is so small I would not miss the Grand Bazaar, Hagia Sophia and the Basilica Cistern
Dear all travellers Turkey’s Air
I and my son recently travelled from London to Nepal and Nepal to London. Before we book our tickets we read all comments posted here and we were scared to travel by Turkey’s Air. However, due to the unbeatable price at that time, we took the opportunity. We were very confident that the International Air Operator know the legal implication for safety, security and inflight customer’s service.
We had very good experience flying with Turkey’s Airline. We had no problems with transfer, on time departure and inflight services. The cabin crew were very hard working. They were always keen to help us. We enjoyed the foods and beverages served during the flight. There were a lots of comments that cabin crew were rude and don’t understand English but for us action speaks more louder than the words.
We strongly recommend to travel this airline.
Kamal Gurung
Kamal, thank you for sharing your positive experience.
thank you for making me feel better
Matthew, I’ve been reading the posts, I think this is great that people can ask questions and get answers back based on your experience and expertise. I have a sister that I’m thinking to book with Turkish Airline in April 2019 to Tel Aviv, but your message to Marjie to avoid the Grand Bazaar then advise Michael to not miss it – I wonder if you’re just saying things people want to hear, please no offense, so I’m in a quandary.
I did not mean to discourage the Grand Bazaar. I think it is safe and highly recommend. I’d take my two-year-old son there. I just advised the other reader that if she was very scared of the Grand Bazaar (irrationally so), there are still so many different neighborhoods in the city she could visit.
I just booked flight for myself and 2 kids from DC to Russia for this summer with stop in Istanbul and layover 9 hours, TA. with all the attacks I have been advised to cancel or rethink. customer service doesn’t give full refund .i need some recommendations about this situations please
I would keep the trip. You will enjoy flying Turkish and it is safe. You don’t have to leave the airport if you are uncomfortable.
I just found out my grandfather was a Turkish man who visited the USA in 1954. I found him but he has already passed away in turkey, but his brother is still living and lives in Ankara. I so want to visit, but I obviously am concerned. This discussion I have read has been helpful. Matthew you are braver than me. Thankful my great uncle realizes that it’s better that he Visits me! But this discussion was helpful!
Hi Michael,
Turkey is a lovely country. I still encourage you to visit!
Hi, looking to go from JFK to Malta in April and fly Turkish Airlines. Anything new to add to your comments about flying this airline or flying to Malta via Turkey in view of our paranoid US administration’s travel ban and some countries talking about requiring US travelers to possibly have Visas in retaliation?
Still recommend it. You’ve always needed a visa to actually visit Turkey, but none will be required to transit through — that would be suicide for Turkey (no pun intended).
Class action Lawsuits coming!
My husband has connecting flight in Istambul from Toronto. His final destination is Serbia. The flight is in August. We are soooo scared 🙁
Don’t be. It will be a great flight experience and the transit in IST will be smooth.
Hello Matthew,
I am American flying from SFO to CMN- Casablanca, Morocco , I will have a stop over in Istanbul. My last visit to Istanbul in 2015, Turkish Airlines provided a FREE hotel stay coming and going due to length of the layover – more than 8 hours. Do you know if this is still the case? And, do you feel their is any major risk riding the shuttle from the airport and back to the hotel for my flight only? Not planning a trip into the city at all. Time frame Jan. 11- Feb. 5, 2018. Thanks in Advance REnae
Hi Yvonne,
I believe you will be safe. If your layover falls under this parameter, you will be eligible for a free hotel–
http://liveandletsfly.boardingarea.com/2017/01/20/turkish-airlines-free-transit-hotel/
Hi Matthew,
This is only somewhat tangentially related to safety, but I have an upcoming return flight booked (IAH-IST-BOM) later in May this year. Given the implementation of the electronics ban compounded with safety concerns, would you still recommend I pursue with the flight or re-book on a European carrier?
Good question. In solidarity to Turkish, I plan to fly on them next month. But it will be very annoying…
But if you are flying IAH-IST-BOM, the ban does not apply to flights departing the USA.
Hi. I am planning to fly from Budapest back to San Francisco (where I live) on Turkish Airlines with a stopover in Istanbul in July. A friend told me that I should reconsider this since there are many terrorist attacks in Turkey and airports are areas of high risk. What do you think I should do?
I believe you will be perfectly safe flying Turkish. I intend to fly Turkish myself in a few weeks.
hi mathew
I’m travelling with my husband, my sister, nieces from guam to Philippines to instanbul then to rome in may 2017. please tell me the truth. when we arrive at the airport in instanbul we have a 3 hour wait before we board our next flight. is it safe to be waiting at our gate for that long? should we avoid being in a large crowd while waiting to board? what area should we avoid while waiting at the airport. thank you for your response in this matter
Angelina, you will see what a wonderful, modern, safe airport Turkish Airlines is. Plenty of good food and drink options to pass your time. Don’t bother to wait in the gate area, not because it is unsafe but because there is not much to do. Instead, hang out in the central terminal area where all the shops and restaurants are. You will be safe.
Hi,
I have a flight Wed leaving from JFK via Turkish Airlines with a layover in Istanbul. I return Easter Sunday from Naples with a overnight layover in Istanbul then fly out the next morning on Monday to JFK. After reading the travel warnings I considering canceling the trip. I can’t seem to find anything very recent after the Chemical Warfare attacks and the US missle attacks on Syria. Have these recent attacks changed your mind at all about traveling to Istanbul ? I know you stated your trip was in April as well and just wanted to get your opinion before I cancelled. Thank you so much.
Hi Lisa, I will be going to Istanbul next week and flying on Turkish Airlines. I have no concerns despite the escalation of U.S. involvement in Syria.
worst airlines and airports ever, went to our gate to a wait the plane, security kicked us out, went back a little later and they told us that we missed our plane, they canceled our tickets and we had to come up with $10000 (ten thousand) to fly back to the states, employees and security were rude, dont speak English except ” NO”.
I think the guy blew up their airport was not a terrorist but rather a pissed off passenger.
Hi, Matthew. My daughter (she’s 23) will be taking a trip to Dubai (any opinion/tips on her visit?) in August (this is her first time ever leaving the US) and she has 2 flight options: the first is Turkish airlines with a 6 hour layover in Istanbul, and the second is Virgin airlines with a 4 hour layover in London. Which do you think would be the safest/best option? Thanks!
Hi Sarah answered below (to Divina). Regards, Matthew
Hi Matthew. I’m traveling at the end of the month JFK to CPT with a 20 hour layover in IST. I’m very excited, yet also nervous for this given the political landscape.
Anyway I was thinking about taking the free Turkish Airlines tour. Do you think it is safe to travel with a tour group or is that being too much of a target? Also, they stop at all major tourist sites so I’m wondering if that is too much of a risk.
I would really love to get your insight on this.
Thanks so much!
Hi Divina answered below. Regards, Matthew
I have a 20 hour layover in IST at the end of the month. I was thinking about going on one of Turkish Airline’s free tours. Since western tourists are a target, would you not recommend going with a large tour group for safety? Also because the tour goes to all the main tourist spots which is supposedly the most dangerous. Please let me know your thoughts.
I am in Istanbul as we speak — the city always charms me. I would join the tour. It’s a beautiful tour worth seeing and everyone is on higher guard since the incident.
I just wanted to let you and everyone else know that I went to Istanbul, took the free day tour given my Turkish airlines and had the most amazing time. All the worries and fear-based thoughts I had before were no where near the reality of how the city really is. There was not once where I felt threaten at all. Definitely worth it to go visit. And totally take advantage of the free Turkish airline tour if you have over a 6 hour layover. It coveted major spots and offered free breakfast and lunch in some nice restaurants.
Thank you Matthew for being another voice of reassurance to push me to go through with experience this incredible city.
Divina! Thank you so much for reporting back on your experience.
(I posted earlier, not sure where my first post went….)
Hi, Matthew. My daughter (she’s 23) will be traveling alone to Dubai in August. This will be her first trip out of the US. She has two flight options: Turkish airline with a 6 hour layover in Istanbul, or Virgin airline with a 4 hour layover in London. Any opinion on which option would be best/safest? We have never used either airline, so as a mom obviously I would like to help her find the safest route to Dubai, but I would also like her to see as much as much as possible! So if I may ask, If it was your 23 year old daughter that was traveling alone, which option would you pick? Thank you!!
Hi Sarah, Istanbul is much easier to connect in than London Heathrow: the transit experience is quite easy. That said, if the price is the same, I might just choose Virgin because of the shorter layover. Is there a big price difference? Turkish will be safe and comfortable, so don’t let safety concern you.
Hi Matthew, I am 18 and I have ticket flight from Jakarta, Indonesia to Amsterdam with Turkish Airlines which means I need to transit in turkey within 2 hours only. I will have summer course in Utrecht for 2 weeks and enjoy the rest of 2 weeks on my grandma’s in Limburg province. Is it enough time to transit ? Do I need to claim my luggage and re-check in or I just need to go to transit counter and ask for boarding pass? I will travel alone for the first time, My parents also worrying about the situation and the flight from turkey. What do you recommend?
Hi Syifa,
Your transit will be easy in Istanbul. No need to reclaim luggage. Just follow transit signs. You’ll proceed through security again than upstairs. You should have plenty of time.
Hello Matthew,
Same question regarding short layover. LAX-Athens via Istanbul both ways with 1 hour 25 minute layover. Does that give us enough time to get to our connecting plane? Thank you.
SAFER THAN UNITED AIRLINES FOR SURE!!!
You’re an idiot!
Through no fault of Turkish Airlines, we were delayed leaving New York, hence landed late in Ataturk, missing my connecting flight, booked separately, to Dalaman by minutes. Though the ticket was not booked through to Dalaman, and our late arrival was not their fault, Turkish booked us on the next available flight out for no additional fee. I recommend them hands down.
Hi Matthew, first up, a nicely written article.
I managed to snag a one-way ticket from Mumbai to Amsterdam on Turkish Airlines for $188 ( a real steal!)
I am confident about the airline experience, but after reading the article, the few security doubts I had regarding my 4 and a half hour layover have been quelled. Hope you agree?
Cheers.
Rohit
That is an incredible price. Was that a mistake fare? I do agree you’ll have a pleasant transit experience.
I believe it was! I was delighted that I grabbed it. My apologies for the delayed response. I am flying end of October and I’ll make sure I put down my 2 cents post the flight. Looking forward to it.
Cheers,
Rohit
I am planning to fly via Istanbul with TK. Is it true that laptops are not allowed?
I read somewehre up here that electronics larger than cellphones are not allowed
Electronics ban applies only on flights to the USA.
Hi Mathew,
My daughter and I will be flying to Istanbul the first of October. We only have 1.5 days to see the city, before catching another flight to London. Should we take a cab to our hotel/hostel, or is public transportation easy to navigate from airport? ALSO, do you know if TSA will allow us to bring an external battery pack (same size as cellphone) so that we can keep our phones charged? Thank you so much!
While you might get through with the battery pack, I would just bring a USB cable. There is a port to charge the phone directly on the screen in front of you. Check out my review here–
http://liveandletsfly.boardingarea.com/2017/05/10/review-turkish-airlines-777-300-economy-class/
I have used both subways and taxis. If your hotel is near a subway station, I think it is perfectly safe (and cheap) to use public transport, but taxis are not really expensive.
Dear Readers,
I thought I might share my recent Turkish experience to alleviate any concerns that some may have.
I boarded with a tinge of skepticism, though proceeded with the flight (upon Matthew’s recommendation) rather than re-book on a European carrier, and am writing this immediately following my flight on the IAH-IST-BOM sector.
I was very pleasantly surprised by the on-board experience. Entertainment had great offerings, food was delicious and top quality, the amenity kit was the best I’ve seen in economy (with slippers, socks, eyeshades, lip balm, and more provided). Flight attendants were professional though distant and nowhere near the warmth of Asian carriers like ANA or Singapore. Seat was comfortable with good recline (and thankfully in a 3-3-3 configuration).
Overall, I’ve had a wide range of experiences flying economy class on many carriers across the world. I would rank Turkish second after Singapore Airlines economy, and despite it being a full flight, I had one of the best economy class flights ever.
Safe travels!
The airport is not secure and the security officers are too
My mom recently traveled from Atlanta to turkish via Addis Ababa and she got robbed by random employe and they stole her purse has $14,000 and gold and us passport at security gate and she try to explain what happened to the security officer and the don’t even give her attention to listen then the took her to small room and arrested her being traveling with out passport instead of investigate and solve the problem!!!!!!!
Hi Matthew.
Is there economy good?..it’s my first time and I’m worried
Check out this review–
http://liveandletsfly.boardingarea.com/2017/05/10/review-turkish-airlines-777-300-economy-class/
Hi Matthew, i m fly alone from Singapore to Istanbul and from istanbul to sofia.
Appreciate you can advise which airline is best for me.
Hi Susie,
Turkish Airlines makes a lot of sense. Will you stop in Istanbul?
Hello Matthew
I’ll be travelling from Lagos to London via Istanbul aboard Turkish Airline with my family.
With the recent security issues in Turkey and the airport bombing sometime ago, I am scared and skeptical to fly through Ataturk airport because these.
What’s your take or advise on these?
Response is appreciated because my wife is concerned and distraught about the security issues.
Dear Williams, thank you for your note. As you can see in my pictures above, Turkey has taken many additional steps to make the airport safe. I would not hesitate to fly via Istanbul. I’ve flown out of Lagos as well and with the Nigerian government now telling airlines they cannot search bags, I feel much safer flying in Istanbul than out of Lagos. Safe travels!
Thanks Matthew for allaying our fears about Turkish Airline and Istanbul airport.
We have already purchased our return tickets to London via IST. I will definitely let you all know what we experienced after our trip.
Once again, thanks Matt
Hello Matthew. I actually forgot to share my experience flying Turkish Airline through IST to London.
It was a wonderful experience for us and felt comfortable throughout the return journey.
I have since flown it a couple of time thereafter.
Hey all, writing you that as a Turkish citizen living in NY fof 2 years. The place I was born and grew up is like 10kms away from the İst Ataturk airport. I am not going to talk about isis attack of last year because that is happening nowadays in London and in Belgium airport got attacked as well and maybe more then İstanbul, Paris got attacked too. I have been travelled 25-30 cities/countries so far and the highest security checks I have seen is in Istanbul Ataturk airport. Some friends said that in Israel it is higher but anyway.. So do not have any doubt about security measures in the airport. you can’t even drive to the airport parking area without a police control. And then again to greet your passenger you go through a second check where you have to take out your belt shoes etc…
Moreover if you leave the airport and take a bus or metro to the city centre nothing is going to happen and 99% will be very friendly to you because İstanbul was in top 5 tourist attracted city before the attacks and with a very low crime rate..
Technically I don’t know how the THY but overall the price/service rate is really good.
Turkish people’s belief is not like the neighbour countries in middle east because of the shamanic roots. so don’t think that any of radical religious person can sneak into the airport to do an action by some interior connection because besides the security measures, in the daily life those ideas are not welcomed.
And all isis attacks in turkey have been done by foreigners not Turkish citizens, unlike European countries.
Hello Matthew,
Are you receiving benefits/revenue from Turkish Airlines that are in any way related to your “liveandletsfly” blog?
No, none at all.
My kids are traveling to US in Turkish airlines under air hostess assistance. Is it ok? Please let us know more about it
Yes, I am sure they will be well taken care of.
Have always been satisfied with TK. That said, when talking overall safety, you need to keep it real and compare apples with apples. Is it ‘just as safe’ to connect through Istanbul, Tel Aviv, or Moscow when compared to say Narita, Helsinki, or Sydney? Given the present day state of the world… Of course not.
Matthew, I am currently looking at a flight from Atlanta to Venice with an 1 hr 15min layover in Istanbul on Turkish Airlines . Do you think an hour is a long enough layover or will I need to go through customs in Turkey?
Hi Maggie,
That will give enough time to connect. I’ve done a connection in 20 minutes before. You will not need to proceed through customs. Enjoy your trip!
Hey there! We are going to Spain and the flights through TA are super cheap! My husband is nervous to fly through the airline. Our trip is planned for 2018. Can you give some insight so he can let me book! Hahaha thanks!
I want to travel from Chicago to Lagos, Nigeria via Turkish Airlines. How safe is it? thanks!
Very safe. Enjoy the journey.
Hi Matthew.. im flying from Singapore to Ataturk and there will be a transit flight in Dubai for maybe 2hrs.. is it safe for me to transit in Dubai as I will be alone and then again which 1 is better for me to transit or to take a direct flight from Singapore to Ist.?
Matthew,
My wife and I are traveling on TK from the US to Bankok in December. Should we be concerned with the current political standoff between Turkey and the US? Based on the current situation, we have no plans to set foot outside of the airport while waiting for our connecting flights. However, this is a fluid situation and could change by the time we leave. I am tempted to pay the penalty for cancelling our flight and using another airline. Any thoughts?
Also, care to comment on the TK website? I have been very, very frustrated with it as well as with their very slow response to any inquiries. The only way I can get a timely response from them is by calling and waiting on the phone. Sometimes that isn’t even answered!
Hello, I wanted to report back and give my own experience with Turkish Airlines.
I too was at first apprehensive as I had heard stories that the planes were hot, and of course concerns about the safety. We had actually flown Turkish airlines on the day our country was having the shootings in Las Vegas – which brings to the point that we tend to regard Turkey as unsafe, but “safety” isn’t 100% anywhere, even at home. We flew to Istanbul, and took Turkish airlines to London as well. When returning, we flew Turkish back to Istanbul, and then another Turkish flight back to Houston. That was a total of 4 Turkish planes, and a combined total of 30 hours of flight on Turkish airlines in 1 week.
I feel that I now have a good idea and sense of the “safety” of the airport (we actually left Istanbul on the day Turkey removed visa privileges for US citizens) and we NEVER ONCE felt unsafe.
Hospitality was very good on the flights, the meals were pleasant, we received complimentary toiletry bags with toothbrush/slippers/lip balm, etc. Absolutely no problems. As for the comfort, my daughter thought coach was a bit cramped, but I disagreed (I’m twice her size). I sat in the middle with her at window and another traveler by the isle. I had plenty of room to stretch, move, and I was never uncomfortable. On one flight it got a bit warm for a little while, but I had packed a rechargeable mini fan that I kept plugged in the outlet. If you prefer moving air I highly recommend packing one!
I would fly Turkish airlines again in a heartbeat, and I hope that the visa issues change as I would love to return to Turkey. I have nothing but positive memories of our trip, our flights, and even the airport/TSA experiences.
I hope you don’t mind, but I’m posting a link from my blog on Safety and Preparedness for Travel, as I wrote this upon my return due to a lot of interest/concern about WHY I choose to travel internationally in the midst of terrorism, and why I don’t allow fear to dictate my travel choices. Turkey is a beautiful country and my experiences with the airlines is nothing but positive.
http://sluglines.blogspot.com/2017/10/safety-and-preparedness-for-wary.html
Helen, thanks for adding this valuable feedback!
Hi Matthew. Thanks for your comments.
I have flown Turkish once- to Tel Aviv on Business because of an unbelievable “black-Friday” deal earlier this year. I agree with everything positive that you said about the airlines and the airport. Despite ordering a special meal, it was not on board. They could not have been more apologetic and compensated me extremely well for my inconvenience. I will definitely fly again!
Hi Matthew,
I am planning to fly Mumbai-SFO via Istanbul with TK, with your earlier comments I see that no electronics other than one phone are allowed. Please advice if I can carry my DSLR camera & while returning I am expecting to get another phone would that be okay?
No problem, at least for now. It will be screened in Istanbul, but you can take it onboard.
We are considering returning to the United States from Dubai via Turkish Airways. We will be traveling with a dog and a cat in the hold. I saw an article written several years ago about poor treatment of animals, but accompanying the article was a response from the CEO of the airline promising improvement. I can’t find anything good or bad about animals on the airline since then. Do you, or anyone else out there, have info that could help us make an informed decision?
Thank you.
C Costa
I’vc never flown on THY but their safety record speaks for itself. Since 1994 they have crashed or written off 9 airliners. Compared to most large western airlines, that’s a very high number.
2015 A320 ran off the runway at Istanbul
2015 A330 ran of the runway at Kathmandu
2010 A310F ran off the runway at Casablanca
2009 737 crashed short of Amsterdam
2003 RJ100 crashed near Diyarbakir
2000 RJ70 ran off runway at Siirt
1999 737 crashed at Adatepe
1998 RJ100 ran off runway at Samsun
1994 737 crashed near Van
In the same period, BA lost 2 aircraft, Lufthansa zero, KLM 1 and Virgin zero.
Data from Aviation Weeks’ Fleet Discovery database.
Matthew,
We are looking to travel to Istanbul in the Spring. Our flight calls for a 3 day layover in Istanbul proceeding to Rome. What is the security concerns of staying in Pera for three days traveling on a US Passport.
Hello Matthew,
First, let me say this blog is awesome! We are scheduled to fly from Dubai to Houston, TX in a few months. Turkish Airlines has a great flight option via Istanbul, but I have some concerns about safety. I see that the route could potentially involve flying directly over Iraq, and possibly, Syria. I have read that airlines that are part of the EU are restricted from flying over these countries. Can you please comment on the route of Turkish Airlines and the safety of this route?
Thank you!
Only an American could even ask the question at top of these posts……
Is it safe to visit the USA….much less safe than most countries in world I would answer.
Are you part of the Erdogan propaganda campaign?
Hey Mathew,
First of all, nice article!
I just got married a month back and we are planning to fly to Istanbul. Is it a good time and safe to go ahead?
We both hold Indian passport and a resident of UAE – Dubai
We are planning to go in March 2018 ( for a week ) via Emirates Airlines
Any suggestion on where to visit and which area to avoid? I would be carrying DSLR / Laptop / Mobiles & Ipad, is it fine?
I would not hesitate to go to Istanbul. It will be a great trip and you should not worry about your safety in any Istanbul neighborhood. Enjoy!
Hi Matthew I will be traveling to Istanbul in June with my daughter we have a 20 hour lay over do you think it is safe to stay at a air B and B outside the airport thanks Sheila
Hi Sheila,
I do believe it is safe (put another way, I would take my baby outside the airport without worry). Enjoy your time in Istanbul!
Matthew, I read up on SkyTrax about customers review on TK, and seems like TK air lost best europe title to Lufthansa in 2017. And many reviews show rude and indifference attitude of the crew. The recent few months reviews are mostly bad ones, compared to 1st quarter 2017.
I am planning to fly economy class from IAD to IST transit then KUL. 6 feet tall, with 3 young kids.Do you still recommend TK?
http://www.airlinequality.com/airline-reviews/turkish-airlines/page/1/?sortby=post_date%3ADesc&pagesize=100
I still recommend it.
Hi Matthew. We are flying to Cairo, Egypt very soon in Business class. Unfortunately, TK was not available and we are on United and the transfer to Egyptair 777 biz class. Kind of off topic but how safe is Egyptair? Thank you.
Hi Jordan,
Check out this post–
http://liveandletsfly.boardingarea.com/2017/02/14/is-egyptair-safe/
Matthew,
Thank you very much. I greatly appreciate the link. Great review.
Matthew,
I’m planning a trip to Bangkok many months out, and TA is offering unbeatable business rates for me. My thought is, when am I ever going to be in IST again, so I want to spend a day and go to Hagia Sophia and the Bazaar. Not too hesitant to fly TA, but I won’t lie, the State Dept has me spooked about leaving the airport, and hanging out in Sultanahamet. Would you still take your baby out around tourist spots? Thx
Hi Andrew, I honestly would.
Hi
I hope to fly business class with Turkish Airlines from Brisbane to Istanbul in October or do you think I should save my money and just go economy? Considering there are no flat beds with this Airline…thanks
Turkish has beautiful flat beds aboard its 777s and most A330s. But they don’t fly to Brisbane. Where would you connect, Singapore or Bangkok?
See this review–
http://liveandletsfly.boardingarea.com/2018/01/26/turkish-airlines-777-300er-business-class-review/
Hi Matthew we will be Flying Turkish airways and our connection will be thru Istanbul,destination Tel Aviv. Due to the recent issues Israel is having, i’m a little nervous to fly this airline. I know Jews are not very welcomed in this area. Our flight is in June what do you recommend.? Also we’re flying economy not sure if you ever flown in that section but how comfortable is economy seating?
I believe you will be fine. You will be treated with respect. Economy is economy class…tight seat pitch and insufficient padding. But overall it’s one of the better products.
Hello i will fly with Turkish Air. On 20 may and back 19 june from Romania i want to know if they are ok with dogs. What I read is very bad they cancel the reservation etc etc I have a Chihuahua 3 kg she will travel with me in the cabin I want to buy the tickets and I am not sure about my dog i need to call them or what to do to be sure that all will be ok with the reservation. Thanks a lot
Your pet should be permitted onboard. Pets up to 8kg are charged 70 TRY. But you must call Turkish to reserve this since there is only one animal permitted in economy class per flight or two in business.
See this page:
https://www.turkishairlines.com/en-us/any-questions/traveling-with-pets/
I have been in Turkey for several times. It was really amazing. Antalya is my best destination with beautiful MediterrneanSea.Antalya /Turkey is very modern and safe.
I flew Turkish Air a few years ago alone … Great service and the best food ever, I felt like i was in first class!! The layover in Ankara airport , felt very uncomfortable, but the inside mall. was nice. so i stayed in there for the layover.
We are retiring to Greece Sept.2018, from Denver Co. looking at all airlines, it looks like Turkish airlines to Instanbul layover 2 hrs or so. and 2 free check in bags for each. is cheaper then others. is it true you get to bring 2 check in suitcases. Thank you
I want to tell everybody to be very careful when buying tickets from Turkish Airlines. If you run into any problmes during your trip, they will leave you on your own. Very, very bad business. A few bucks you are trying to save when buying tickets might cost you a lot of money. Steer away from Turkish Airlines. Here’s my story in short. I bought nine tickets from Turkish Airlines, 4 adults and 5 kids from Moline, Illinois to Sarajevo, Bosnia. They canceled our first flight from Moline to Chicago, without letting us know about it. So, we missed other two flights. Imagine how we all felt at the airport. Guess what happened next, they did not want to reschedule us, they didn’t want to reimburse our money, they won’t do anything. I am out of a lot of money, kids are dissapointed, everybody is depressed for days now. THEY DON’T CARE. I will be posting bad reviews about them for years to come. That is the only comfort I get now.
That has been exactly my experience with them.
My wife and I just came back from a trip to Instanbul and Skopje from Houston. The flights were among the best we have ever flown and we have almost 4 million miles between us. We flew business and had the chef on board who was excellent. Ground, boarding, in-flight service were all 5/5. Istanbul airport is very busy but there are excellent services and of course the TK lounge is great. Omelets to order and all.
Istanbul was safe for the 5 days we were there. No worries at all.
Turkey is doomed too unless it makes real peace with Israel.
I flew the same sector last year and enjoyed the flight because it was 3/4th full so comfortable. Last year things were more difficult but travel has never been an issue. Of course the perception of risk remains but things in reality are much better. You may also have the added advantage of better fares. For best fares book @
https://www.rehlat.com.eg/en/airlines/turkey/turkish-airlines-booking/
I was flying yesterday 22/10/2018 to Helsinki from Istanbul with Turkish airlines ( T K 1763).
When we arrived, the passenger sitting next to me-from Italy, was not feeling well. I informed the crew-but I realised-in seconds, that the person just lost his life. I gave him the kiss of life and heart massage and he recovered.
The crew was completely lost-people was getting out of the plane at the same time and I had to scream in order the crew to bring the oxyzen.
They informed that they asked for a doctor from the airport like we were discussing for the weather, and they didnt realise the critical situation. Imagine that a finish woman told them that she can help because she is a nurse and the crew told her to go out!!!! All these happened in 1 minute.
In the airport, I went to Finavia office-airport authority, to ask if airport is informed about the critical incident, what was the health condition of the passenger that I had saved his life, and finally to complain about Turkish crew who denied the help of a professional while a person was between life and death, in the Helsinki airport territory.
They told me that it is a secret!!!!and that they cannot inform me for the medical situation of the passenger that I had saved his life. They also denied to answer me if they have being informed and what were the actions performed by the airport authority. They gave me a card to send e-mail to customer feedback department of Finavia……
I would like to request from you, to answer me the following:
1. Have you been informed about this incident by Turkish airlines? if yes,
2. Is passenger treated properly by Turkish airlines?
3. Is he alive?
4. Is his family informed?
5. Where is he?
6. If not, what are the actions that are you planning to do?
I am travelling only with Turkish airlines, but I have to say that the crew was not able to handle such critical situation; the passenger would probably be dead in the first minutes. I wish I could find a way to learn if he is well now.
Have not been informed. What a fascinating story, Feel free to reach out to me at the contact form above with more details and. I can reach out to the Turkish PR team.
Turkish Airlines is one of the world’s finest airlines and now will very soon be moving into a brand new airport which will cement their status as one of the world’s leading airline brands.
I agree with you. I flying to Turkey soon for a 2 month trip and not worried about my safety one bit!
This is an amazing article such a great read. I am in the process of booking travel and Turkish Airlines has the best prices, your article put me at ease and made my decision super easy. thanks again
I travel in Turkish airlines often. I find it is a good airline to travel with they are very caring and kind with consideration.the comments of some people are sometimes exaggerated.if you travel with some European airlines you get some passengers are shit to travel with they demand a lot of alcohol and even they have alcohol problems.they think it is their previous bed to annoy other’ passengers.some passengers are selfish they cause the problem s on board the aircraft carrier.
The Turkish Airlines of today, is not the Turkish Airlines of the past. Decades ago, Turkish Airlines had a deplorable safety record.
Turkish Airlines with new aircraft I travelled on 10th October 2019 at destination Washington D.C.For transit passengers irrespective of duration a drink and light refreshments for wheel chair passengers should be worth enhancing service standard, Thanks.
Turkish airlines is a nightmare. I am not referring to the flight itself, rather than the poor service and lack of knowledge and the arrogance of the ground crew. My son got stranded in Istanbul last year in December because of the conflicting information and/or rule interpretation from their staff. They had no consideration of the fact that he was in transit and gave him only one option – buy a brand new flight ticket back to US. My son had just turned 18 and had no credit card, nor enough cash to pay right there and then. when we tried to buy him a ticket online from here, all flight for the next couple of days were full so he ended up spending 2 nights at the ataturk airport in IST and sleeping on the flimsy chairs of the airport.
Why you are after airlines belongs to Muslim countries.
I have never seen your articles against Air India or other airlines in India. Their air crashes are also higher. Their airlines are full of fake pilots.
With my experience , I rate Turkish Airlines , flights, customer service better than any other foreign carrier by far. My Best My Favorite Airline
As far as I know ,turkeys air line remains one of the best airline in the world .let forget the past and be honest.
I fly them often.Very good.World class aircraft and airports