Turkish Airlines’ New Premium Economy Cabin Is Coming in 2028. Is It Worth the Long Wait?

Updated: August 27, 2026, 8:42am CDT

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Turkish Airlines Will Finally Offer Premium Economy on Its Newest A350s
Final Thoughts

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It is finally happening. Turkish Airlines is planning to introduce a premium economy cabin on its new Airbus A350 from 2028 onwards. The new cabin will debut on the A350 before being introduced on other widebody aircraft across Turkish Airlines’ sizable fleet.

This move marks a major shift for the Star Alliance carrier, which has long operated a simple 2-class configuration on its long-haul aircraft, among a shrinking number of global network carriers without a middle ground offering.

Here’s everything we know so far.

Turkish Airlines Will Finally Offer Premium Economy on Its Newest A350s

As first reported by Executive Traveller, Turkish Airlines plans to introduce its long-haul premium economy cabin beginning in 2028. Currently, the airline only offers economy or business class across its long-haul fleet.

Turkish Airlines IST ATL 787 9 economy seats — Turkish Airlines Boeing 787 economy seats. Image Credit: Keri Stooksbury

Turkish’s new chairman, Murat Seker, has confirmed that the premium economy product is currently under development and is expected to launch in mid-2028. The new product will first appear on its newest A350 aircraft, including specific A350-1000s planned for long-haul services between Istanbul and Australia.

Additionally, Turkish Airlines plans to also add premium economy to its Boeing 777 and 787 fleets. The airline is looking to shift roughly 8% to 9% of its current economy class capacity to the new premium economy product.

Turkish business class seat — Turkish Airlines business class seat on the Airbus A350-900. Image Credit: Ehsan Haque

Though this is a step in the right direction, the concept isn’t entirely new for Turkish Airlines. Between 2010 and 2016, Turkish Airlines offered “Comfort Class” on its long-haul Boeing 777 aircraft.

The product featured wider seats, additional legroom, increased recline, adjustable leg rests, and upgraded dining. However, the product was eventually discontinued after demand fell short of expectations.

Though not confirmed at this time, the new premium economy product may feature seats designed by TCI Aircraft Interiors, in which Turkish Airlines is a key stakeholder. The company offers a Royalux seat designed for widebody aircraft, which includes features like a larger entertainment screen, USB-A and USB-C ports, optional wireless charging, privacy wings, adjustable headrests, and a more ergonomic footrest.

Hot Tip:

If you’re planning to fly Turkish Airlines in premium economy, keep an eye on the booking windows. These seats will likely be in high demand.

Final Thoughts

Turkish Airlines is planning to finally introduce a premium economy class starting in 2028. The new product will debut on the airline’s newest Airbus A350 aircraft, and will make its way to Turkish’s existing Boeing 777 and 787 fleet.

This move marks a major step in Turkish Airlines’ plan to modernize its future fleet and enhance the overall onboard experience. For travelers, the additional cabin provides a long-awaited middle ground between economy and business class.

Travelers looking to experience these new products will have to wait a little longer — the new aircraft are expected to be delivered beginning in 2028.