Discovering Turkish Airlines Plane Seating: What You Need to Know
Choosing the right seat on a long flight has gotten complicated with all the seating options and fee structures flying around. As someone who’s flown Turkish Airlines on multiple routes between the US and Europe, I learned what actually matters when selecting your seat. Today, I will share it all with you.

Economy Class Seating
Turkish Airlines economy offers a seat pitch of 31-32 inches with widths around 17-18 inches. That’s standard for international carriers, neither particularly generous nor cramped. Some aircraft have adjustable headrests that actually help on overnight flights — mine had them on the Istanbul route and I slept better than expected.
Personal entertainment screens come standard, with movies, TV shows, music, and games available. The selection rotates, so I’ve found different content on different flights.
Business Class Seating
Business class is where Turkish Airlines distinguishes itself. The seats recline to fully flat positions — essential for sleeping on long-haul flights. Seat pitch reaches up to 78 inches with widths between 21-22 inches.
Probably should have led with this, honestly: the food in business class is genuinely impressive. Turkish Airlines employs onboard chefs who prepare meals during the flight. The wine selection is extensive. Amenities include adjustable reading lights, massage functions, and actual storage space for personal items.
Preferred Seats
Preferred seats near exits and bulkheads offer up to four extra inches of legroom compared to standard economy. There’s an additional fee that varies by flight duration and route. Worth considering if you’re tall or just value being able to stretch.
Seat Selection Process
Booking seats works through the Turkish Airlines website or mobile app. Interactive seat maps show what’s available for each flight. Business class passengers select for free; economy passengers may pay fees for specific seats or preferred locations.
Special Needs Seating
Turkish Airlines accommodates passengers with limited mobility with seats near restrooms and aisles. Contact customer service ahead of time to arrange appropriate seating. Children traveling alone receive special attention with positioning near flight attendants. That’s what makes the airline endearing to us families who sometimes need to send kids on their own — they handle it professionally.
In-flight Comfort Items
Both economy and business passengers receive pillows and blankets on long-haul flights. Business class adds noise-canceling headphones, travel kits with toiletries, and slippers. Small details, but they matter on a 10-hour flight.
Entertainment System
Personal screens across all classes offer movies, TV shows, documentaries, children’s programming, games, and music. Business class screens are larger with higher resolution. USB ports at every seat keep devices charged.
Wi-Fi and Connectivity
Wi-Fi is available on many flights. Business class typically gets complimentary access; economy passengers may need to purchase packages. Check availability for specific flights on the airline’s website.
Food and Beverage Service
Turkish Airlines meal service has earned a solid reputation. Options accommodate vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and halal requirements — request special meals during booking or through customer service. Business class features multi-course meals prepared by Turkish Do&Co. Drinks flow freely in both cabins.
Seat Configuration and Aircraft Types
Turkish operates Airbus A319, A320, A321, A330, A350, and Boeing 737, 777, and 787 aircraft. Configurations vary:
- Boeing 777: Economy typically 3-3-3
- Airbus A330: Economy may be 2-4-2
- Long-haul business: Lie-flat seats
- Regional business: Angled seats
Checking your specific aircraft before selecting seats helps avoid surprises.
Loyalty Programs and Upgrades
Miles&Smiles members can redeem points for seat upgrades. Membership tiers — Classic, Classic Plus, Elite, and Elite Plus — unlock additional benefits and upgrade opportunities. Frequent flyers accumulate status quickly on Turkish’s extensive network.
Safety Features
All seats meet aviation safety standards with proper seatbelts. Business class includes additional restraints for turbulence. Emergency procedures are communicated in multiple languages. Exit row passengers must meet specific requirements and be prepared to assist in evacuations.
| Class | Seat Pitch (inches) | Seat Width (inches) | Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Economy | 31-32 | 17-18 | Personal screen, adjustable headrest |
| Business | 75-78 | 21-22 | Full-flat seat, larger screens, gourmet meals |
| Preferred | 33-36 | 17-18 | Extra legroom, near exit/bulkhead |
Additional Resources
- Official Turkish Airlines Website
- FlyerTalk: Turkish Airlines
- SeatGuru: Turkish Airlines Seat Information
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