Monaco Journal - Turkish Airlines Launches Fourth Mainland China Route to Chengdu

Turkish Airlines began scheduled service between Istanbul and Chengdu on November 11, establishing the western Chinese city as its fourth destination in mainland China. The new route joins existing connections to Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou.

The carrier will operate three flights per week to Chengdu Tianfu International Airport using Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft. Flight TK226 departs Istanbul Airport on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays at 02:05, arriving in Chengdu at 15:40 local time. The return service, TK227, leaves Chengdu on Mondays, Thursdays, and Saturdays at 00:45, landing in Istanbul at 05:55.

To mark the launch, Turkish Airlines is offering fares starting from $540 for travel between the two cities.

Chengdu, home to a population exceeding 21 million, serves as a significant center for trade, logistics, and finance. The city hosts multinational corporations across sectors including electronics, automotive manufacturing, aviation, biotechnology, and artificial intelligence. Recognized by UNESCO as a City of Gastronomy, Chengdu attracts millions of annual visitors drawn by its Sichuan cuisine and the giant panda breeding and research base.

Murat Şeker, chairman of the board and executive committee of Turkish Airlines, stated that China holds a strategically important position among the airline’s key markets. "We believe this new route will contribute to the continued growth of commercial, cultural and tourism ties between Türkiye and China," he said.

Turkish Airlines, a member of the Star Alliance, operates a fleet of 571 passenger and cargo aircraft serving 359 destinations in 133 countries.

D.Riva--MJ