Turkish Airlines A350 Business Class: TK35 Flight Review
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The business class on the Turkish Airlines A350 ranks among the best long-haul experiences available from Montreal. On the way home from a trip, we tested flight TK35 from Istanbul to Montreal aboard the Airbus A350-900. This direct flight connects Canada to one of the most strategic international hubs in the world, with a modern cabin, service by Do&Co and the option to book using Aeroplan.
De plus, la liaison TK35 ouvre la porte à une multitude de destinations en Europe, en Afrique, au Moyen-Orient et en Asie via Istanbul.
Why Choose the A350 Between Istanbul and Montreal
To operate flight TK35, Turkish Airlines uses the Airbus A350-900, one of the most modern long-haul aircraft in service. The A350 is known for its cabin comfort, improved pressurization and ambient lighting that helps reduce jet lag.
- Quieter environment: the A350 significantly reduces cabin noise compared to previous generations.
- Better pressurization: the simulated cabin altitude is lower, which reduces fatigue after a 10-hour flight.
- Modern lighting: lighting phases follow the circadian rhythm to facilitate sleep.
Booking Flight TK35 with Aeroplan
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’s Strategic Hub
Istanbul is a strategic hub for continuing to many regions of the world. For example, from IST airport, you can reach:
- Central Asia
- Southeast Asia
- The Middle East
- Several African destinations
Business Class Cabin on the A350
The business class cabin on the Turkish Airlines Airbus A350-900 uses a 1-2-1 configuration, so every passenger has direct aisle access. Unlike some newer cabins such as Lufthansa Allegris or SWISS Senses, Turkish Airlines opted for a simpler, more consistent 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 Turkish Airlines A350 business class cabin in 1-2-1 configuration with its dark tones and intimate atmosphere.
Configuration and Seat Selection
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 180-Degree Lie-Flat Seat
The Turkish Airlines A350 business class seat is very contemporary and well designed. The hard product is clearly very solid, and the seat converts into a fully flat bed at 180 degrees, which remains essential on 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.
The 180-degree lie-flat seat of Turkish Airlines A350 business class and the quality of the bedding provided.
- 180° lie-flat: ideal for recovering during a 10-hour flight.
- Comfortable mattress: added to the seat to transform the sleep experience.
- Sheets and thick blanket: complete bedding offered to each passenger.
- Retractable armrests: expand the bed surface in rest mode.
Do Not Disturb Function
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.
Lighting and Work Table
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.
Seat controls, personalized lighting, and storage spaces in Turkish Airlines A350 business class.
Onboard Service: The Real Highlight
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.
“Eat on Demand” Service
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.
Do&Co gourmet service in Turkish Airlines business class: mezze appetizers, aperitifs, main courses, cheeses, and traditional desserts.
Exceptional Attention to Detail
The level of attention to detail is impressive. For example, you’ll find:
- Mini porcelain salt and pepper shakers: a rare detail in business class.
- Very refined presentation: each dish resembles restaurant service.
- Elaborate coffee menu: about ten preparations explained by the crew.
- Traditional Turkish coffee service: with silver teapot and ceremonial presentation.
Turkish coffee culture and Turkish Delight, signature of the Turkish Airlines gastronomic experience.
Wine and Beverage Menu
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 business class menus: wine list, main meals, and pre-landing snacks.
Amenity Kits and Amenities
Turkish Airlines offers high-end amenity kits in partnership with well-known brands such as Lanvin and Diptyque. The cultural touch is especially appreciated: some kits take the shape of a miniature mosque, a tribute to Turkish heritage.
- Lanvin leather kit: contains creams, eye mask, earplugs, and toothpaste.
- Diptyque kit: premium care products for in-flight comfort.
- Slippers provided: ideal for relaxing during the 10-hour flight.
- Denon headphones: quality headsets for the entertainment system.
Lanvin and Diptyque amenity kits and amenities offered in Turkish Airlines A350 business class.
Onboard Internet and Entertainment
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.
Entertainment System
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.
The entertainment system, external cameras, and interactive map of flight TK35.
Our Experience Aboard TK35
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
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.
Summary: Advantages and Limitations
Here is a summary of our experience in business class on the Turkish Airlines A350 on flight TK35.
Strengths
- Exceptional service: Do&Co chef onboard and attentive crew.
- 180° lie-flat seat: comfortable for a 10-hour flight.
- Modern A350 cabin: quiet, well-pressurized, and elegant.
- Réservable avec Aéroplan : 70 000 points en classe affaires vers l’Europe.
- Strategic hub: Istanbul provides access to Asia, Africa, and the Middle East.
Points to Consider
- Limited Internet: 1 GB free, sufficient but not unlimited.
- Uniform cabin: no private suites like some recent competitors.
- Aeroplan availability: award seats may be limited during peak season.
Which Cards to Earn Aeroplan Points
To book business class on the Turkish Airlines A350 with 70,000 Aeroplan points, you first need to earn those points. Several Canadian credit cards let you do that quickly. To compare all the options, see our Best credit cards page or our dedicated guide to 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.
Conclusion: Excellent Value Per Point
The 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 sets this product apart is the onboard service. Having a chef on board, the quality of the food and the attention to detail create a far 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.
Turkish Airlines A350 Business Class – Frequently Asked Questions
How many Aeroplan points are needed for Turkish Airlines A350 business class?
You need 70,000 Aeroplan points to book a business class flight between Montreal and Istanbul on Turkish Airlines. This route falls within the Europe zone of the program, which offers excellent value per point.
What is the flight number and schedule for Turkish Airlines between Istanbul and Montreal?
The flight number is TK35. It departs Istanbul around 3:05 PM and arrives in Montreal around 6:10 PM, for a total duration of approximately 10 hours. The airline operates this route several times per week, typically on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays.
What is the business class configuration on Turkish Airlines’ Airbus A350-900?
The cabin features a 1-2-1 configuration, which gives each passenger direct aisle access. The cabin has 8 rows, or approximately 32 seats. Additionally, seats alternate between a window position and an aisle position, depending on the desired level of privacy.
Does the seat convert into a fully flat bed?
Yes, the Turkish Airlines A350 business class seat converts into a fully flat bed at 180 degrees. Complete bedding is provided: mattress, sheets, and thick blanket. The armrests lower in bed mode to expand the available surface.
Is there a chef onboard in Turkish Airlines business class?
Yes. Turkish Airlines is one of the few airlines to offer a chef onboard in business class. These chefs are trained by the Do&Co group and participate in preparing and presenting dishes during the flight. The service operates on an “eat on demand” model that allows passengers to eat when they wish.
Is Wi-Fi free in Turkish Airlines business class?
Yes. Each business class passenger receives 1 GB of free Internet during the flight. This amount is more than sufficient for checking emails, sending messages, and browsing the web during the 10-hour flight.
Which seats should you choose in business class on Turkish Airlines’ A350?
For solo travel or couples wanting more privacy, window seats in the “privacy” configuration are preferred. The seat is positioned near the fuselage and the armrest is on the aisle side, which creates a true individual bubble. Rows 4A and 6A are excellent choices.
What amenity kits does Turkish Airlines offer in business class?
Turkish Airlines offers premium amenity kits in partnership with Lanvin and Diptyque. They contain premium care products, an eye mask, earplugs, and toothpaste. Some kits even take the miniature form of a mosque, as a nod to Turkish cultural heritage.
How do you earn the 70,000 Aeroplan points needed?
Several Canadian credit cards allow you to quickly earn Aeroplan points through their welcome offers and bonus categories. Consult our complete list:
To learn more about earning and redeeming Miles with Turkish Airlines, read our complete guide to Turkish Airlines Miles&Smiles.
