Turkish Airlines, the flag carrier of Türkiye, has once again been recognized as one of the world’s leading airlines, receiving the prestigious “World Class” award from the Airline Passenger Experience Association (APEX) for the fifth consecutive year. This honour reaffirms the airline’s commitment to excellence in global branding, passenger experience, and operational quality.
The APEX/IFSA Awards Ceremony, held in Long Beach, California, celebrated airlines that push the boundaries of innovation and elevate the passenger journey. At the event, Turkish Airlines stood out by securing the “World Class” award, which highlights dedication to premium service and guest experience.
Following a comprehensive evaluation by industry experts, the “World Class” award was presented to Turkish Airlines based on its performance in four key categories: Safety & Wellbeing, Service & Guest Experience, Sustainability, and Food & Beverage Executions.
In addition to the highly coveted “World Class” award, Turkish Airlines was also recognized for the second consecutive year as Best in Class in the World Class Sustainability Category, and this year received the newly introduced Best in Class in the World Class Food & Beverage Executions Category.
Prof. Ahmet Bolat, Chairman of the Board and the Executive Committee of Turkish Airlines, said: “We are honoured to receive the prestigious ‘World Class’ award from APEX for the fifth consecutive year, reaffirming our leadership in the global aviation industry. Our two additional awards this year further highlight our unwavering commitment to offering our guests an exceptional dining experience above the clouds, while continuously advancing innovation and embedding sustainability in our operations. I extend my sincere gratitude to the entire Turkish Airlines family for their dedication in making these achievements possible, and to our valued guests for the trust they place in us.”
APEX Group CEO Dr. Joe Leader added: “Turkish Airlines marks its fifth consecutive year as an APEX World Class airline in 2026, while also making history as the first airline to capture two APEX World Class service awards in the same year. Achieving the 2026 APEX World Class Best Food & Beverage distinction alongside the 2026 APEX World Class Sustainability award against formidable global competition reflects a balance of culinary excellence and environmental leadership. Turkish Airlines continues to set a new global benchmark by pairing authentic hospitality with innovation that redefines what passengers can expect from world-class travel.”
Turkish Airlines continues to enhance its acclaimed in-flight dining by offering meticulously crafted menus enriched with signature Turkish hospitality, while also leading the aviation industry with its sustainability initiatives, including digitalization and waste management practices.
