seen on the scene
TURKISH AIRLINES: BEST BUSINESS-CLASS IN EUROPE
The Istanbul Experience
By: Heidi Powell-Prera, Photographer/Journalist
A true leader in business air travel, Turkish Airlines has been an award-winning
airline for the last decade. Skytrax World Airlines Awards named them Best Airline
in Europe, Best Airline in Southern Europe, Best Business Class On Board Ca-
tering, and Best Business Class Lounge Dining. In addition to these four awards,
Turkish Airlines has won awards from CEO World and Trip Advisor. With such a
well-established and well-deserved reputation, Turkish Airlines has orchestrated
a layover program showcasing Istanbul’s historic grandeur, its bustling modern
metropolis, and its variety of savory Turkish and international cuisine served with
continental flair at a variety of fine restaurants throughout the city. The program
was designed carefully to turn a tedious frustrating layover between flights into an
adventure to remember and an inspiration to the traveller to be certain to return.
This photographer/journalist owes a debt of gratitude to Jamal Hamza, who rep-
resents Turkish Airlines here in Houston, for the invitation to join a group of 8
journalists, 3 of us from Houston, Jeff Gremillion from City Book, Gabby Ortega,
and me, for a familiarization trip to Istanbul. Our 48 hours were literally packed
with amazing experiences. For me, as I am certain is true of all their business
travellers, the pleasure started with the over-the-top in flight service. Not only
were the seats truly designed for comfort, they have literally thought of every-
thing a traveller might need. The attentive hostesses endeavored throughout the 13
hours it took to reach Istanbul from Houston to insure our comfort. The dishes
served were a gourmet treat and presented on real China. Warm towels soothed
14 iF Magazine |March 2019