Turkish Airlines named 5-star global airline

A major airline passengers group has lauded Turkish Airlines as a Five-Star Global Airline based on passenger experience and comfort, Turkey's flag carrier announced Tuesday.

Turkish Airlines got the honor at the Airline Passenger Experience Association (APEX) Award Ceremony at Expo 2017 in Long Beach, California, the airline said in a statement.

"What differentiates us is that while connecting our guests with their loved ones, we turn great ideas into reality, which results in a travel experience full of unique services and delightful differences," said Turkish Airlines Chairman Ilker Ayci.

Ayci said being named a Five-Star Global Airline by passenger votes was the most valuable recognition they get in return.

Turkish Airlines has won a variety of awards from many organizations in the sector for its service quality, on-board and on-the-ground catering, business class and lounges, according to the statement.

"These include the Best Airline in Europe for 6 consecutive years starting in 2011, Best Business Class Onboard Catering in 2013, 2014, 2016, and 2017, and the World's Best Business Class Lounge awards in 2015 and 2017," the statement said.

The company has 328 aircraft (passenger and cargo) flying to 300 destinations in 120 countries, including 251 international and 49 domestic destinations.

In August alone, Turkish Airlines hit an all-time record of seat occupancy with 84.3 percent. The airline carried 7.4 million passengers last month, a 14.3 percent rise over the same month last year.

Last year, Turkish Airlines carried 62.8 million passengers, up 2.5 percent from 61.2 million passengers in 2015.