Turkish Airlines earns fifth consecutive “World Class” award from APEX

Turkish Airlines has been recognized as one of the world’s leading airlines by the Airline Passenger Experience Association (APEX), receiving the “World Class” award for the fifth year in a row. 

The honour was presented during the APEX/IFSA Awards Ceremony in Long Beach, California, which celebrates airlines that demonstrate excellence in passenger experience and innovation.

The “World Class” award is based on evaluations in four categories: Safety & Wellbeing, Service & Guest Experience, Sustainability, and Food & Beverage Executions. 

In addition to this recognition, Turkish Airlines was named Best in Class in the World Class Sustainability category for the second year running and received the new Best in Class award for World Class Food & Beverage Executions.

“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," said Prof. Ahmet Bolat, chairman of the board and the executive committee of Turkish Airlines. 

"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.”

Dr. Joe Leader, APEX Group CEO, 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 has emphasized both its in-flight dining program, which features menus influenced by Turkish culinary traditions, and its sustainability initiatives, including digitalization and waste management efforts.

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