Turkey’s plan to build the world’s largest airport and greatly expand the national airline signals the country’s ambition to become a major global aviation player linking the skies between Europe and Asia.
Plans for an airport twice the size of London Heathrow, and an expanded fleet of modern aircraft, could see Turkey threaten struggling European airlines as well as fast growing Gulf carriers.
Both Emirates, now aligned with Qantas, and Etihad have built modern fleets and airports to make the most of their locations between Europe, Africa and Asia.
Now Turkish Airlines wants a piece of the action. Non-stop flights between Istanbul and Sydney could start as early as next year.
The carrier recently firmed up a USD4.7 billion order for 15 Boeing 777s, the largest order by value in Turkish Airlines’ history.
The new aircraft will be key to extending THY’s long-haul reach through Asia.
