I have a medically documented immune disorder with multiple food and environmental allergies. I travel often, always disclose in advance, carry sealed food, EpiPens, meds, and doctor’s letters, and I fully manage my condition myself. I’ve flown long haul internationally many times without issues.
This was my first time on Turkish Airlines. Before the trip, I contacted customer service, disclosed everything, and was told a note would be added to my reservation. I was also told to inform gate staff on the day of travel and that there would be no problem.
On my first flight, a 14 hour US to Istanbul flight, I told the gate staff ahead of boarding and simply asked if nuts would be served. They told me to wait while they checked. After about 30 minutes, I was suddenly told I was being offloaded. No explanation. Multiple staff surrounded me saying they “didn’t want to take responsibility for me” because of my condition. This was despite me having my own food, multiple EpiPens, meds, and a doctor’s note.
Only after I pushed back hard and showed proof that everything had been disclosed in advance did they reverse the decision. Even then, they pressured me to sign a statement taking full responsibility if anything happened.
It somehow got worse on the next day’s connecting flight from Istanbul to Kazakhstan. I asked if I could briefly eat my own sealed food in a slightly more isolated area to reduce cross contamination. Something I’ve been allowed to do many times on other airlines. The chief cabin crew member loudly shut me down in front of other passengers, said she didn’t know what was in my bag, refused to listen, and repeatedly ordered me to sit down. It was aggressive and humiliating.
Other crew members quietly told me it should be fine, but every time I tried again, the same crew member intervened. I ended up not eating at all on a 6 hour flight.
I’ve flown Emirates in similar situations where they simply make a short announcement and don’t serve nuts. No drama, no hostility, basic accommodation.
If you have a medical condition, especially allergies, be very cautious with Turkish Airlines. Based on this experience, they are inconsistent, hostile, and more interested in covering themselves than treating passengers with basic dignity.
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