Since its inaugural flight to Malta two years ago, Turkish Airlines’ services to the island have grown quickly.
The airline plans to schedule 13 flights every week from Istanbul to Luqa this summer, up from thrice weekly in 2013 and then daily last year.
Its rapid expansion on the Maltese Islands reflects its growth worldwide, as Turkish Airlines currently flies to more than 260 destinations and aims to add 50 new routes in the next few years, said Gulay Ozturk, general manager of the airline in Malta.
New routes to Manila in the Philippines and Taipei, Taiwan, from Istanbul were launched at the end of March, and San Francisco is on the cards for this month.
With so many airlines competing for customers, the relative newcomer is keen to stress the benefits it offers, particularly for people travelling to long-haul destinations.
“Anyone who flies through Istanbul and has a waiting time of at least six hours is welcome to Tour Istanbul,” said Ozturk.
“During the tour, passengers will be able to see the most significant historical sights of a city that has hosted major civilisations of the world and natural beauties, rather than waiting at the airport for their connecting flight.”
If exploring the city doesn’t appeal, in Istanbul the airline’s 5,000-square-metre lounge includes a children’s playground, library, billiards area, prayer room and teleconference section, rest and shower space as well as massage beds.
Anyone who flies through Istanbul and has a waiting time of at least six hours can take a tour of the city rather than stay at the airport
“Also, Turkish Corporate Club is a corporate travel programme that allows you to save on all business travel expenses, while Miles&Smiles is our advantageous frequent flyer programme,” said Ozturk.
“As long as you choose to fly with Turkish Airlines and other programme partner airlines, you will be able to take advantage of opportunities designed to make your life a bit easier as offered by our partners.”
The airline is a member of Star Alliance and has 266 passenger and cargo aircraft in total. It is working with the Malta Tourist Association to promote the islands overseas.
According to a 2014 survey by aviation industry researchers Skytrax, decided by the passengers’ votes, Turkish Airlines was chosen Europe's Best Airline for the fourth time and Best Airline in Southern Europe for the sixth consecutive time. It also picked up Best Business Catering Service and Best Business Class Lounge Dining.
Turkish Airlines recently announced it would sponsor the Uefa Champions League over the next three years.
Ozturk said: “We promote all sponsorships in local markets too. Sport is one of the few industries that creates a genuine emotional connection with consumers.
“We have a wonderful group of brand ambassadors like [Lionel] Messi and [Didier] Drogba and are title sponsors of Europe’s elite club basketball competition, the Turkish Airlines Euroleague.
“Turkish Airlines is also the official airline for Borussia Dortmund and Olympique Marseille football clubs and a top-level sponsor for Chio Aachen, one of the world’s most prominent equestrian tournaments.”