Turkish Airlines Miles And Smiles Lounge Review (New Istanbul Airport) - Current Business Class lounge is closed

Turkish Airlines went to great lengths with their Business Class lounge at the old airport to impress customers. Unfortunately, the Business Class lounge at the new Istanbul airport was still closed when I transited in late October 2020.

All Business Class passengers can instead use the Miles And Smiles Lounge just a short walk away from the Business Class lounge.

The design and theme is very similar to the old Business Class lounge. Indeed you feel like you know this place. However, a few amenities simply aren’t available including showers and sleeping rooms.

Turkish Airlines has also cut down on the catering due to COVID-19 - freshly baked 'pide' and grilled meats and vegetables are served only from 11 Am - 8 PM.

During my visit, it seemed the lounge was about half full at maximum capacity (but there were distinct lines for the food service). There is a small salad and snack buffet plus some desserts (all individually packaged).

Unfortunately, the excellent wine selection is gone - the only drinks are water, soft drinks, and beer now. There are no espresso drinks - just coffee and tea.

The Wifi was available after registration and was rather fast.

Turkish Airlines runs about 40-50% of their usual schedule (better than many other airlines) but the lounge felt lifeless and there seemed to be a darker mood than usual.

This is still a solid lounge and the food is as yummy as ever. However, it has clearly lost the 'sparkle'.