Journalist Impressed by Turkish Airlines Economy Class Dining Experience
A reporter who recently flew with Turkish Airlines, the carrier voted as Europe's best budget airline, has delivered a glowing review of its in-flight catering, particularly praising the quality and presentation of the meals served in economy class.
Nine-Hour Flight Reveals Award-Winning Catering
Taylor Rains, writing for Business Insider, embarked on a nine-hour journey from New York to Istanbul aboard one of Turkish Airlines' Boeing 787 aircraft. The airline had recently been honoured by Skytrax, receiving multiple accolades including the title of best airline in Europe and best economy class catering in Europe.
During the midday departure, passengers were offered a choice between grilled salmon or mushroom orecchiette pasta for their main meal. The experience was enhanced by the provision of warm towels before the service began, setting a premium tone for the economy class offering.
Detailed Praise for Fresh and Flavourful Meals
"Despite my scepticism, the salmon, served with ratatouille, Caesar salad, and celeriac mousseline, was fresh and flavourful, and the portions were generous," Taylor recalled in their review. "I was full by the time I got to the carrot cake."
The journalist noted that Turkish Airlines outsources its catering in New York to the Austrian company DO & CO, which appears to have contributed significantly to the elevated dining experience. The quality was such that it drew comparisons to meals typically associated with five-star carriers like Singapore Airlines.
Taylor concluded: "I don't usually recommend eating airline food if you can avoid it, but Turkish seems to have figured it out. The meals felt lighter and more satisfying than usual."
Industry Recognition and Passenger Considerations
Turkish Airlines' achievement in the Skytrax awards extends beyond economy class, with the carrier also receiving honours for:
- Best business class catering
- Best business class in Europe
- Best economy class in Europe
- Best economy class catering in Europe
This positive review emerges as many travellers begin planning their summer holidays and considering their airline options for long-haul flights. The timing coincides with increased industry recommendations from aviation professionals offering tips to passengers.
Additional Travel Advice from Cabin Crew
Separately, a Virgin Atlantic cabin crew member has shared seating recommendations for travellers, suggesting avoidance of certain areas on aircraft:
- The first row by the wings due to noise from toilet queues and potential baby cradles at bulkheads
- Emergency exit rows on older aircraft which can become quite chilly
The crew member reassured passengers concerned about temperature fluctuations that bringing extra layers is perfectly acceptable, noting: "There's nothing stopping you from bringing extra flight socks or even a hot water bottle - we're more than happy to fill one up for you during the flight."
This combination of positive dining experiences and practical travel advice provides valuable insights for passengers considering Turkish Airlines or planning long-haul journeys during the upcoming travel season.
