Turkish Airlines has long been known for its exceptional onboard catering, extensive route network, and overall high standards of service. With the introduction of its Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner business class, the airline promised an even better flying experience with a more private, 1-2-1 seat configuration and an enhanced in-flight service.

But does it truly live up to the hype? After flying in business class on Turkish Airlines' 787, I put the seats, service, dining, and amenities to the test. Let’s break it all down.

Cabin & Seat Experience: Modern, But Cramped?

The Cabin Layout: Staggered, But Efficient

The Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner features a 30-seat business class cabin arranged in a 1-2-1 configuration, ensuring direct aisle access for all passengers. Turkish Airlines opted for a staggered layout, meaning some seats are positioned closer to the window (odd rows), while others are closer to the aisle (even rows).

🔹 Best seats for privacy: Even-numbered window seats (e.g., 2A, 4K, 6A) are closer to the windows, offering the best privacy.

🔹 Best seats for couples: The middle seats in odd-numbered rows (e.g., 3E, 5E) are closer together with a shared divider, making them ideal for traveling pairs.

Seat Comfort: Lie-Flat, But Not the Roomiest

✔️ Lie-flat seats (76-inch bed length)

✔️ Seat width of 20 inches

✔️ Soft, well-padded cushions

✔️ Adjustable armrests, lumbar support, and multiple recline positions

✔️ Storage compartments and USB/AC power outlets

While the lie-flat bed is comfortable for sleeping, the footwell is a bit tight due to the staggered design. Compared to Qatar Airways’ Qsuites or Emirates’ business class on the A380, the seat feels more restrictive.

💡 Pro Tip: If you prefer maximum privacy and legroom, avoid aisle-facing window seats and opt for those closer to the window.

Dining: Is the Famous “Flying Chef” Worth It?

One of the standout features of Turkish Airlines business class is its onboard dining experience, which is designed to replicate fine dining at 35,000 feet.

✔️ Flying Chef service: A dedicated onboard chef takes meal orders and ensures high-quality food presentation.

✔️ Authentic Turkish and international cuisine: Think Turkish mezze, grilled seafood, beef filet, and baklava.

✔️ Beautiful presentation: Meals are served on fine porcelain with real cutlery and glassware.

✔️ Pre-flight menu selection: On long-haul routes, you can pre-order meals.

While the food quality was excellent, the service could have been more personalized. Unlike Qatar Airways’ dine-on-demand model, Turkish Airlines has a more traditional meal service schedule.

💡 Pro Tip: Request Turkish dishes! The airline’s local cuisine options (like lamb kebabs and lentil soup) tend to be far superior to its Western menu items.

Amenities: Luxury Touches, But No Pajamas?

Turkish Airlines doesn’t skimp on premium amenities, though there are some areas for improvement.

✔️ Noise-canceling headphones (Denon brand, decent but not Bose-level)

✔️ Luxury amenity kit (Bulgari-branded on some flights)

✔️ Thick, comfortable blankets & pillows

✔️ Slippers included (but no pajamas)

💡 Pro Tip: If you’re taking an overnight flight, bring your own lounge wear or pajamas, as Turkish Airlines does not provide them in business class.

In-Flight Entertainment: Great Content, But Not the Best Screen

Turkish Airlines offers a decent entertainment selection, but it doesn’t quite match Emirates’ ICE system or Singapore Airlines’ KrisWorld.

✔️ 18-inch touchscreen with HD resolution

✔️ Over 650 movies & 1,600 TV episodes

✔️ Live TV on select flights

✔️ Good selection of Turkish and international content

However, the screen placement felt slightly awkward, and the interface was slower than expected.

💡 Pro Tip: Download Netflix shows or music before your flight if you’re picky about entertainment options.

Wi-Fi: Surprisingly Good for a Long-Haul Flight

Unlike many airlines that offer slow and unreliable Wi-Fi, Turkish Airlines’ 787 Dreamliner Wi-Fi was better than expected.

✔️ Fast Wi-Fi speeds (enough for browsing and light streaming)

✔️ Complimentary access for business class passengers

✔️ Seamless connectivity, even over the Atlantic

💡 Pro Tip: Turkish Airlines occasionally offers free messaging on WhatsApp and iMessage, so check before purchasing a full Wi-Fi plan.

The Service: Hit or Miss?

Turkish Airlines has a reputation for top-tier hospitality, but business class service on the 787 can be inconsistent.

✅ Friendly and well-trained crew

✅ Fast meal service compared to economy

✅ Flying Chef adds a luxury touch

❌ Some passengers report inattentive service on longer flights

❌ Not as polished as Qatar Airways or Singapore Airlines’ business class

💡 Pro Tip: If you experience slow service, politely request assistance—it can make a difference!

Istanbul Airport Transit: A Beautiful, But Exhausting Hub

If you have a layover in Istanbul (IST), expect a modern, spacious airport with world-class lounges.

✔️ Turkish Airlines Business Lounge is one of the best in the world, offering:

• Sleeping pods & private suites
• A vast buffet of Turkish and international cuisine
• Freshly made gözleme (Turkish flatbread)
• Showers, play areas, and workspaces

However, Istanbul Airport is HUGE, so prepare for long walks between gates.

💡 Pro Tip: If your layover is longer than 8 hours, Turkish Airlines sometimes offers a free hotel stay—check before your flight.

The Verdict: Is Turkish Airlines 787 Business Class Worth It?

So, does Turkish Airlines’ 787 Dreamliner business class live up to the hype? Yes, but with a few caveats.

✅ Great for:

✔️ Gourmet dining with an onboard Flying Chef

✔️ Spacious lie-flat seats (if you choose the right ones)

✔️ Solid Wi-Fi & entertainment options

✔️ Fantastic Istanbul lounge experience

✔️ Competitive pricing vs. Emirates & Qatar Airways

❌ Skip it if:

❌ You want the best possible seat comfort—Qatar Airways’ Qsuites and Emirates’ A380 business class offer better privacy and space.

❌ You expect flawless service—some flights have inconsistent crew attentiveness.

❌ You need a spacious footwell—some seats have cramped legroom in lie-flat mode.

Final Score: 8.5/10

Turkish Airlines’ 787 business class is solid, with world-class dining and competitive pricing, but it falls short in seat space and consistency of service.

💡 Final Tip: If price is your main concern, Turkish Airlines offers one of the best-value business class experiences. But if you’re after the absolute best seat and service, Qatar Airways Qsuites or Emirates business class may be better options.