Turkish Airlines vs Royal Air Maroc

Overview

Turkish Airlines (Türk Hava Yolları) is the flag carrier of Turkey. According to Wikipedia, it was founded on 20 May 1933, is listed on Borsa Istanbul (THYAO) and has been a member of Star Alliance since 2008. Its corporate headquarters are at the former Atatürk Airport site in Istanbul. Its subsidiaries include the low-cost carrier AJet, Turkish Cargo and Turkish Technic. Its frequent-flyer programme is Miles&Smiles.

Network and hubs

The main hub is Istanbul Airport, which replaced Atatürk Airport in a phased move completed in 2019. CAPA lists Esenboğa (Ankara) and Adnan Menderes (Izmir) as secondary hubs. Wikipedia describes the airline as serving more countries than any other carrier, with about 340 to 350 destinations in Europe, Asia, Africa, Oceania and the Americas, including a large domestic network. Most intercontinental journeys connect through Istanbul.

Fleet

Turkish Airlines Group, including AJet, had 516 aircraft in 2025, with up to 570 planned for 2026, according to its CFO (reported 5 March 2026). Third-party trackers such as Plane Finder list roughly 420 mainline aircraft, including Airbus A321neo, A321, A330, A350-900 and A320 types and Boeing 737, 777 and 787-9 types. Figures vary by source and date.

On board

Turkish Airlines operates two cabins, Economy and Business. Wego reports that every Economy fare includes a meal, checked baggage and seatback entertainment. Business class adds lie-flat seats on long-haul aircraft, Flying Chef dining and lounge access. Wego also reports that Wi-Fi is free for Business passengers and Miles&Smiles members, with free Wi-Fi for all passengers being rolled out through 2026. Seat dimensions vary by aircraft type and are not given here.

Good to know

• Cabin baggage: per the airline's baggage page, Economy allows one 8 kg bag (55x40x23 cm) plus a 4 kg personal item. Business allows two 8 kg bags plus a personal item.
• Checked baggage: the allowance depends on route and fare, so check the booking.
• Lounges: The Points Guy notes two large lounges at Istanbul, one for elite members and one for Business passengers.
• Punctuality: Simple Flying reported 81.41% on-time performance for 2025, using Cirium data.
• Safety: Wikipedia records 19 incidents and accidents in the airline's history, 15 of them fatal.

Global Network and Operations

Royal Air Maroc operates a comprehensive network connecting Africa, Europe, the Americas, and the Middle East with over 90 destinations worldwide. Its fleet consists of approximately 54 aircraft including Boeing 737s, 787 Dreamliners, and ATR turboprops. The airline serves as Morocco’s flagship carrier and operates primarily from Mohammed V International Airport in Casablanca.
• Extensive network across Africa, Europe, North and South America, and the Middle East.
• Fleet includes modern long-haul Boeing 787 Dreamliners and short- to medium-haul Boeing 737s.
• Key hub at Casablanca Mohammed V International Airport connecting the African continent.
• Member of the oneworld alliance since 2020, enhancing global connectivity and code-sharing opportunities.

Innovation and Milestones

Royal Air Maroc has achieved important milestones reflecting its leadership and modernization in African aviation:
• First African carrier to operate the Boeing 787 Dreamliner, improving long-haul efficiency and passenger comfort.
• Modernized digital platforms offering user-friendly booking, check-in, and mobile services.
• Expanded cargo operations reinforcing its position in African trade and logistics.
• Active adoption of sustainable initiatives aimed at reducing environmental impact, including investments in newer, fuel-efficient aircraft.

Customer Experience and Recognition

Royal Air Maroc offers multiple cabin classes, including Economy, Business Class, and occasionally a Premium Economy on select aircraft. Passengers enjoy state-of-the-art in-flight entertainment systems and traditional Moroccan hospitality. The airline has been recognized for its service quality, on-time performance, and safety standards across its network.

Future Outlook

Looking forward, Royal Air Maroc aims to expand its network within Africa and internationally, focusing on enhancing fleet modernization and digital transformation. The airline plans to strengthen partnerships within the oneworld alliance and invest in customer experience innovations to maintain competitive advantage and support Morocco’s tourism and trade ambitions.