A Business Class review of Turkish Airlines on a long-haul aircraft like the Boeing 777-300ER, but used on a short-haul route, was long overdue. That’s why I took a closer look at the product and service on the route from Istanbul (IST) to Antalya (AYT). Due to the short distance, with a flight time of 90 minutes, there is of course no classic long-haul onboard service on the Boeing 777-300ER. Nevertheless, the seat product, the crew, and the general comfort can be well tested.
The Boeing 777-300ER is a top modern long-haul aircraft and, in Turkish Airlines’ configuration, accommodates about 300 Economy Class seats and 49 Business Class seats. The Boeing 777-300ER has a maximum range of 12.000 kilometers.
By the way, it is the civilian aircraft with the largest engine diameter worldwide! The two engines provide a thrust of 175.000 horsepower. Impressive!
Turkish Airlines
Turkish Airlines is now one of the largest airlines worldwide in terms of route network. Founded in 1933, the airline currently flies to around 300 destinations (across more than 120 countries) with its current 440 aircraft.
The airline is a member of the Star Alliance and generated a revenue of approximately 18.4 billion US dollars in 2023, from around 83 million passengers carried (2023).
The airline’s hub is at Istanbul-Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW) and Istanbul International Airport (IST). Both airports are located in close proximity to the major city of Istanbul and are open around the clock.
Boarding and Crew
Boarding at Istanbul Airport (IST) was quick and efficient, probably because today’s flight was not fully booked. The crew was friendly and attentive.
I quickly reached my seat 5D in the Boeing 777-300ER Business Class. It is a so-called bulkhead-row seat, meaning it is in the first row of seats. In my case, in front of the middle Business Class galley.
Seat Product, IFE and WIFI
The seat product is standard for a Boeing 777-300ER with an international flagship carrier. Some (critics) might say there are more modern and beautiful designs. That may be true. Personally, I like the straightforward and open design of this Business Class. The space available is very generous, and there are plenty of storage areas.
It should be noted that this is still an “older” Business Class product compared to the Turkish Airlines 787. Even on Turkish Airlines’ Boeing 777-300ER, there is now a newer product, but it is not installed on every aircraft of this type.
The IFE (Inflight Entertainment) itself is absolutely intuitive and offers all the amenities one would expect. A large selection of movies in many different languages, an aircraft camera overview, WIFI instructions, etc. The operation works as usual via a wired remote control.
If there is anything to criticize here, it is that the screens are not quite of the latest generation. They are somewhat small by today’s top airline standards, and the resolution does not seem to be Full HD. Market leaders like Qatar Airways are more modern in this respect. However, this is all “complaining” at a high level. The IFE screen product is certainly sufficient.
Catering
Upon greeting, there was already a cool and homemade lemon-mint lemonade as well as water. The lemonade was absolutely refreshing and tasted excellent. Just the right thing to quench your thirst.
In addition to the obligatory hot towels, the menu cards were also handed out. Of course, due to the short flight, no major service is possible. Nevertheless, the airline tries to offer the best possible here.
However, the surprise followed shortly after takeoff. Due to tailwind and a significantly faster flight time than expected, no meals could be served. Only drinks were handed out. Of course, it is a bit disappointing to have the delicious and complete menu card in front of you, but this is a circumstance no one can help. Let’s see it positively: A shorter flight time also means arriving earlier and less fuel consumption and CO2 emissions.
At least, there was more than one drink round. Efforts were made to make up for the canceled catering service. Plenty of drinks were served, including tea and coffee.
Landing
The landing came sooner than expected. After about 60 minutes of flight time, instead of the planned 90 minutes, the Turkish Airlines Boeing 777-300ER landed in Antalya (AYT) ahead of schedule.
The aircraft was parked at a remote stand, and Business Class passengers were picked up by a dedicated shuttle bus. The shuttle was equipped with aircraft seats. This was a fitting end to this Business Class flight.