Australians will soon have greater access to Europe after the government quietly approved a fivefold increase in Turkish Airlines flights.
Transport Minister Catherine King ticked off on the pre-Christmas agreement that could reduce airfares for flights to the Middle East and South-East Asia from 2024.
The carrier’s flights to Australia were set to begin with seven services weekly but plans updated over the weekend show it will start with 21 flights instead.
That capacity will increase to 28 a week from mid-2024 and 35 from mid-2025 – overtaking Qatar Airways’ services to Australia.
Turkish Airlines is expected to launch services into Australia early next year with plans to fly direct services between the east coast, including the under construction Western Sydney Airport, and its hub in Istanbul.
A coveted fifth freedom flight, referring to an international service that does not take off or land within the carrier’s home country, was also approved.
It means Australians will be able to fly on the airline to destinations such as Singapore without needing to book a second leg to Istanbul.
Landing rights agreements are negotiated between governments rather than government to airline.
Ms King’s decision came after she faced intense criticism for blocking a similar bid from Qatar Airways earlier this year.
The government has maintained the decision was made in the “national interest” but Ms King has cited the invasive strip searches of five Australian women in Doha in 2020 provided “context” for her decision.
Qantas had opposed the Qatar Airways application, claiming it would distort the market. The airline did not oppose the Turkish Airlines bid.
A senate inquiry was launched amid accusations the government had rejected the application to protect Qantas’ bottom line.
It recommended Ms King’s decision be reviewed.
Ms King’s office has been contacted for comment.