Chengdu:Istanbul Turkish Airlines has officially launched scheduled flights to Chengdu, marking an expansion of its network within mainland China to include four cities. This development was announced by the airline, highlighting its strategic growth in the region.
According to Anadolu Agency – English, Chengdu, the capital of Sichuan province, now joins Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou as destinations serviced by Turkish Airlines in mainland China. The airline will operate three weekly flights from Istanbul to Chengdu using Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft. Departures from Istanbul are scheduled for Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays, with return flights from Chengdu set for Mondays, Thursdays, and Saturdays.
During an event celebrating the inaugural flight, Turkish Airlines Chairman Murat Seker emphasized the significance of China in the airline's strategic markets. He noted that the new route to Chengdu, a city known for its tourism, technology, and aviation industries, as well as being a UNESCO City of Gastronomy, will enhance the carrier's service network. Seker also expressed confidence that the route would foster stronger commercial, cultural, and tourism ties between Türkiye and China.
Chengdu, with a population of over 21 million, is recognized as a key commercial, logistics, and financial center in western China. The city is home to international businesses in sectors such as electronics, automotive manufacturing, aviation, biotechnology, and artificial intelligence. It is also famous for its Sichuan cuisine and the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding.
Turkish Airlines has announced introductory round-trip fares for the new route starting at $540. These promotional prices are available through the airline's official website, although prices may vary when purchased at sales offices or through travel agencies.
Turkish Airlines, a member of the Star Alliance founded in 1933, boasts a fleet of 571 passenger and cargo aircraft. It serves 359 destinations across 133 countries, with its network comprising 306 international and 53 domestic destinations.