Turkish Airlines has been named the winner of the 2026 APEX Best Food & Beverage in Europe Award, marking the fifth time the carrier has received the recognition, according to a press release issued by the airline on Thursday.

The award was presented by the Airline Passenger Experience Association (APEX) and was based on passenger feedback collected through the TripIt travel planning platform during the 2026 evaluation period. More than one million flights operated by over 600 airlines worldwide were assessed by travelers across categories including seat comfort, cabin service, food and beverage, in-flight entertainment, and Wi-Fi.

Turkish Airlines said the latest recognition reflects its continued focus on enhancing the onboard dining experience through a combination of Turkish hospitality, diverse menu offerings, and its Flying Chef programme.

“We are very glad to be recognized by APEX as the Best Food & Beverage airline in Europe for the fifth time,” said Ahmet Olmuştur, Chief Executive Officer of Turkish Airlines. “This award speaks to the passion and craftsmanship our teams pour into every meal we serve above the clouds, starting from menu design to the moment it reaches our guests.”

The airline operates one of the world's largest international route networks, serving destinations across more than 130 countries. It has long emphasized inflight catering as a key element of its passenger experience strategy, particularly on long-haul international services.

APEX Chief Executive Officer Dr. Joe Leader said the award recognized more than just the quality of onboard meals, describing Turkish Airlines' dining programme as an expression of Turkish culture and hospitality.

“Turkish Airlines receiving the 2026 APEX Best Food & Beverage in Europe award reflects far more than excellence on a tray,” Leader said. He added that the carrier had successfully combined large-scale global operations with a distinctive customer experience centered on culinary quality and service.

Turkish Airlines said it would continue to develop its catering concepts and menu offerings as part of broader efforts to improve the travel experience across its global network. Industry analysts note that customer-experience awards remain an important tool for airlines seeking to reinforce brand loyalty and attract international travelers in a highly competitive market.