Singapore and Turkish Airlines to Expand Codeshare Operations

Singapore Airlines and Turkish Airlines have agreed a major expansion of codeshare ties, covering destinations beyond both Istanbul and Singapore.

Singapore Airlines will also increase frequency on a seasonal basis between Singapore and Istanbul to six times per week to meet growth in demand on the route.

The Star Alliance partners have been codesharing on each other’s flights between Singapore and Istanbul since February 2009.

Singapore Airlines currently operates four weekly flights on the route while Turkish Airlines operates seven weekly flights.

Under the expansion of the agreement, Singapore Airlines will add its ‘SQ’ designator code to Turkish Airlines-operated flights beyond Istanbul to destinations within Turkey, as well as to points in Africa, Europe, the Middle East and North America.

On a reciprocal basis, Turkish Airlines will add its ‘TK’ designator code to Singapore Airlines-operated flights beyond Singapore to points in South East Asia and the Southwest Pacific.

The expanded codeshare ties are expected to take effect from 1 May 2014, subject to regulatory approvals. Singapore Airlines’ increase in frequency on the Singapore-Istanbul route to six flights per week during the Northern Summer operating season is due to take effect from 26 May 2014 and four per week during the Northern Winter operating season.

Dr Ahmet Bolat, Turkish Airlines Chief Investment and Technology Officer, said, “We are glad to expand the current codeshare agreement with Singapore Airlines, a recognised member of Star Alliance. This expansion will serve as an example of Turkish Airlines’ target to maximise the travel opportunities offered to passengers through the extensive networks of both airlines. With this co-operation we will have the opportunity to transfer our passengers to destinations in Australia, New Zealand and South East Asia via Singapore by connecting our networks. Reciprocally, Singapore Airlines will have the increased chance to transfer its passengers to Africa, Europe, the Middle East and North America via our hub in Istanbul.”