Departure Lobby

This is the departure lobby inside the airport.

At the time, this was Atatürk International Airport (Istanbul), before all operations were transferred to the new Istanbul Airport, which officially began full operation in April 2019.

Security Checkpoint

The security screening area.

Entrance

This is the entrance to Turkish Airlines’ lounge in Istanbul.

Transparent Lockers

This is a glass-front locker placed near the entrance of the lounge.

Since it can be locked, I understand logically that there is no risk of theft. However, because the inside is visible, it leaves a slight sense of uneasiness in my mind. It’s an amusing design that almost makes the locker seem as if it’s grinning.

Connecting Staircase

This is the “connecting staircase,” located in the center of the lounge, linking the two-floor structure.

The staircase is enveloped by a large globe-shaped structure, creating a whimsical, fairytale-like atmosphere as you move up and down through it.

The Turkish Airlines logo is displayed inside this globe sculpture.

Globe Sculpture

This is a close-up of the Turkish Airlines logo inside the globe that surrounds the walkway mentioned earlier.

The logo features a bird—apparently modeled after a heron.

Seating Area

This is the seating area. The rounded arch-shaped pillars and ceiling design seem to be inspired by traditional Turkish architectural styles. It gives the space a very distinctive look.

Food & Drinks – Salads and Fruits

This is the Turkish meze (traditional appetizers) counter in the lounge.

Food & Drinks – Turkish Tea (Çay)

I had a glass of Turkish tea, called “çay.” People in Turkey reportedly drink several cups a day.

It’s a strong black tea, usually enjoyed with plenty of sugar.

Jet Engine

This is the jet engine of the aircraft I’m boarding today.

The aircraft for this flight was, if I remember correctly, a Boeing 777-300ER.

From Beneath the Wing

I took this photo from directly underneath the aircraft’s wing.

Aircraft Parked Beside Us

This is the aircraft that was parked right next to ours.

Boarding (1)

For today’s flight, boarding was done via a staircase from the tarmac.

Boarding (2)

This is the view while boarding the aircraft from the stairs.

Business Class Seat

This is the business class seat.

It’s arranged in pairs and converts into a fully flat 180-degree bed.

Spacious Legroom

The legroom is very generous, making the space extremely comfortable. In front of the seat is an ottoman where you can rest your feet.

The screen is positioned for easy viewing, and the red compartment functions as a storage space for small personal items.

Welcome Drink

This was when I received a glass of orange juice as my welcome drink.

Business Class Cabin

The business class cabin.

While it isn’t a fully enclosed suite, the seats do recline into a 180-degree flat bed, offering a spacious and relaxing environment.

Dinner – Appetizers & Champagne

This is the first appetizer plate of the Turkish meal course.

I also enjoyed champagne and nuts.

Dinner – Starter

In addition to the appetizers, I received this starter plate.

It included grilled tomato, grilled eggplant, and dishes based on hummus— a traditional Turkish appetizer made from boiled chickpeas mixed with tahini, olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice.

Dinner – Soup

This is the soup served after the starter. It was likely lentil soup, a classic in Turkish cuisine.

The flavor was very gentle and comforting.

Dinner – Main Course

The main dish was an oven-baked fish fillet, similar to sea bass, wrapped in paper. Seasoned with tomato paste, olive oil, and spices, it was delicious.

I also had some bread.

Dinner – Dessert & Cheese

Dessert and cheese plate.

The bread was so good that I asked for more.