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The Turkish Airlines A350 business class ranks among the best long-haul experiences offered from Montreal. On a return trip, we tested flight TK35 between Istanbul and Montreal aboard the Airbus A350-900. This direct flight connects Canada to one of the world’s most strategic international hubs, featuring a modern cabin, Do&Co service, and the possibility to book with Aeroplan points.
Furthermore, the TK35 connection opens the door to a multitude of destinations in Europe, Africa, the Middle East, and Asia via Istanbul.
To operate flight TK35, Turkish Airlines deploys the Airbus A350-900, one of the most modern long-haul aircraft in service. Indeed, this aircraft is renowned for its cabin comfort, improved pressurization, and ambient lighting that reduces jet lag.
For travelers who collect points, Turkish Airlines A350 business class represents a particularly attractive option. Turkish Airlines is a Star Alliance member, which allows you to book this flight through the Air Canada Aeroplan program.
Additionally, the route between Montreal and Istanbul falls within the Europe zone of the Aeroplan program. This often provides excellent value per point in business class. To explore other attractive routes, consult our guide on business class sweet spots with Aeroplan.
Istanbul is a strategic hub for continuing to many regions of the world. For example, from IST airport, you can reach:
The business cabin of Turkish Airlines‘ Airbus A350-900 features a 1-2-1 configuration. This means every passenger benefits from direct aisle access. Unlike some new cabins like Allegris at Lufthansa or SWISS Senses, Turkish Airlines has opted for a simpler, more uniform approach.
The cabin does not multiply configurations. All seats are similar and the experience remains consistent from one row to another. Black and anthracite tones give the overall space a classic and elegant appearance.
The business cabin comprises 8 rows, for a total of approximately 32 seats. Seats alternate between two positions: near the window or near the aisle. This alternation allows you to choose your desired level of privacy.
Even though we often travel as a couple, we generally prefer window seats in the so-called “privacy” configuration. In this configuration, the seat is positioned near the fuselage, while the armrest is on the aisle side. This creates a true individual bubble. For this flight, we chose seats 4A and 6A, which allowed us each to enjoy our own space while remaining close.
The Turkish Airlines A350 business class seat is very contemporary and well-designed. The hard product is clearly very solid. Additionally, the seat converts into a fully flat bed at 180 degrees, which remains essential for a 10-hour flight.
I am 5 feet 11 inches tall and still had space at the feet and head. Furthermore, in bed mode, the armrests can be lowered, which further expands the available surface. The bedding provided is also of good quality.
A particularly interesting feature is the Do Not Disturb function. A button near the seat activates this mode. A small light then illuminates in the aisle to indicate to the crew that the passenger does not wish to be disturbed. It’s simple, but very effective on a long-haul flight.
The seat offers several lighting options. The intensity adjusts according to activity: reading, dining, or resting. The table is also well-designed. It stores under the screen and consists of two flaps, which allows you to use it at 50% for working on a laptop or at 100% to enjoy a large space during meals.
While the seat is excellent, what truly distinguishes this flight is the onboard service. Turkish Airlines is one of the few airlines to offer a chef onboard in business class. These chefs are trained by the Do&Co catering group and participate in preparing and presenting meals during the flight.
The service operates on an eat on demand model. Passengers can eat when they wish. In practice, most follow the rhythm of the main service, but this flexibility is highly appreciated.
Additionally, meals are not served on a pre-assembled tray. A display cart circulates in the aisle and passengers choose the items they want. Each plate is then prepared individually. The service becomes much more personalized.
The level of attention to detail is impressive. For example, you’ll find:
The beverage menu is also very comprehensive. Notably, it includes Taittinger champagne, several premium whiskies, quality gin, and a refined selection of red, white, and rosé wines from French and Turkish estates.
Turkish Airlines offers premium amenity kits in partnership with recognized brands like Lanvin and Diptyque. Above all, the cultural nod is appreciated: some kits take the miniature form of a mosque, a tribute to Turkish heritage.
Each business class passenger receives 1 GB of free Internet during the flight. This is more than sufficient for checking emails, sending messages, and browsing the web. The connection is easily activated via a QR code displayed on the screen.
The entertainment system meets expectations for this type of aircraft. The screen is large and easy to use. Additionally, the content includes movies, series, music, and documentaries about Turkey.
The aircraft also offers several external camera angles, which I always appreciate. You can choose the forward view, underside view, or side view. This is particularly interesting during takeoff and landing. Furthermore, an interactive map allows you to track the flight’s progress in real time.
Even though the flight lasts approximately 10 hours, neither Véronique nor I saw the time pass. Our flight was divided between movies, meals, a few glasses of whisky or wine, and a short nap. We each slept about 2 hours, which is highly appreciated on a daytime flight.
The cabin crew also deserves recognition. Throughout the flight, the crew was attentive, professional, and very friendly. Notably, the flight attendants called us by name for a good portion of the flight. Additionally, one attendant spoke to us in French, which is obviously appreciated on a flight to Montreal.
Here is a summary of our experience in Turkish Airlines A350 business class on flight TK35.
To book Turkish Airlines A350 business class with 70,000 Aeroplan points, you first need to accumulate these points. Several Canadian credit cards allow you to do this quickly. To compare all options, consult our Best Credit Cards page or our specialized guide on the best Aeroplan credit cards.
On the American Express side, you can also consult our comparison of American Express cards for earning Aeroplan points to choose the best option for your profile.
Turkish Airlines A350 business class is an excellent surprise. The cabin is elegant, the seat is comfortable, and the overall experience feels very consistent. But what truly distinguishes this product is the onboard service. The presence of a chef, the quality of the catering, and the attention to detail create a much more personalized experience than on most long-haul flights.
For travelers wishing to reach Istanbul or use this hub to continue their journey elsewhere in the world, flight TK35 between Istanbul and Montreal is a remarkable business class option. At 70,000 Aeroplan points, the value per point is hard to beat.
To learn more about earning and redeeming Turkish Airlines miles, see our complete guide to Turkish Airlines’ Miles&Smiles program.
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