I make the trip to Munich often. Not for sightseeing. Not for a quick weekend. My daughter lives there, and those flights are my connection to family. Over time, I have learned which airlines work for me and which do not.
Turkish Airlines keeps winning that place in my plans. It is not only about the schedule or the ticket price. It is also about how the journey feels.
Some travellers swear by Middle Eastern carriers like Etihad or Qatar Airways. I do not. I have my reasons, both personal and practical.
Why Turkish Works for Me
1. The Route Fits My Life
From Karachi, the stop in Istanbul is short and direct. No wandering through multiple airports. No odd hours in the middle of the night.
2. Price Without Cutting Quality
I have compared fares many times. Turkish is often equal to, and sometimes lower than, Etihad and Qatar. And the meals still feel like meals. Warm bread. Fresh salads. Food that tastes like it was meant to be eaten, not just served.
3. Baggage That Matches My Needs
Visiting family means gifts going in and mementos coming back. Turkish usually allows more baggage on economy than its rivals. That extra allowance is more useful to me than a free drink or a bigger TV screen.
4. Service With the Right Balance
The crew is attentive but never makes you feel like they are hovering. Long flights feel more comfortable when service has that balance.
5. Avoiding What I Prefer to Avoid
For me, avoiding Middle Eastern stopovers is part of the choice. Istanbul suits me better.
The Drawbacks
1. Crowds in Istanbul
It is a modern airport, but it is busy. Security lines can take time, and some gates are far from the main area.
2. Winter Weather Delays
Snow in Istanbul is rare but possible. When it comes, it can slow things down.
3. Patchy Wi-Fi
Internet access is available, but not always fast. If you need to work during the flight, that can be a limitation.
Etihad: What Works and What Does Not
Pros:
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Newer planes and well-rated business class.
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Abu Dhabi Airport is smaller and easier to get around than Istanbul or Doha.
Cons:
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Economy baggage limits can be lower.
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Journey time from Karachi to Munich is often longer.
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Middle Eastern stopover.
Qatar Airways: The Bright Points and the Gaps
Pros:
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Consistently ranked among the world’s best.
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Doha’s Hamad International Airport is clean and well organised.
Cons:
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Higher fares, especially at busy times.
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Layovers to Munich can be longer.
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Middle Eastern stopover.
Why I Choose Turkish Again and Again
It is not about chasing points. It is about a combination that fits my trips: good timing, fair fares, generous baggage, and a route that avoids what I do not enjoy. Istanbul’s connection works.
I know other travellers have their favourites, and that is fine. For me, the journey to Munich begins the right way when I step on a Turkish Airlines flight.
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