Star Alliance founding member Thai Airways (THAI) will launch daily flights between its Bangkok base and Istanbul from December.
THAI’s Istanbul flights will complement Turkish Airlines’ Bangkok flights, which will continue operating multiple times a day.
THAI’s Istanbul launch is part of a joint venture MOU signed between the Thai flag carrier and Turkish Airlines this week that seeks “to maximize the synergies that this strategic partnership offers to both airlines”.
“This cooperation would enhance the efficiencies of THAI and Turkish Airlines in terms of connectivity and route network. Our customers will be able to conveniently travel between Thailand and Türkiye as well as on to Europe and other points in Asia, making full use of the extensive networks offered by THAI and Turkish Airlines,” commented Thai Airways chief executive, Chai Eamsiri.
“This agreement represents an important milestone for the cooperation between Turkish Airlines and THAI as it brings together the rich cultural heritage of Türkiye and Thailand. This collaboration will enhance connectivity between the two regions, provide seamless travel experiences, and offer passengers a wider range of destinations and services through both airlines’ networks,” added Turkish Airlines chief, Bilal Eksi.
Star Alliance member Turkish Airlines has a fleet of 425 (passenger and cargo) aircraft flying to 344 destinations worldwide.
THAI currently operates flights to 57 destinations in 19 countries with a fleet of 67 aircraft. The airline is adding additional new-technology Airbus A350 aircraft to its fleet.