Turkish Airlines allows parents to bring one stroller per child free of charge. The policy applies to both domestic and international flights and is part of the airline’s broader family assistance services. Whether you're bringing a lightweight umbrella stroller or a larger travel system, Turkish Airlines accommodates most strollers as long as they comply with safety and handling guidelines. The Turkish Airlines stroller policy ensures that parents can use strollers through the airport terminal and up to the boarding gate or aircraft door on many routes. After that, the airline staff will take the stroller, place it in the aircraft hold, and return it to you either at the aircraft door upon arrival or at the baggage claim area, depending on the airport procedures.
Types of Strollers Allowed
Turkish Airlines does not impose strict restrictions on stroller types, but travelers are advised to choose foldable, collapsible models that are easier to manage during security checks and boarding.
Recommended Stroller Types:
Umbrella strollers
Compact/travel strollers
Foldable jogging strollers
Stroller frames with infant car seats
Not Recommended:
Heavy, non-foldable prams
Oversized strollers exceeding airline baggage dimensions
While the Turkish Airlines stroller policy allows a wide range of options, strollers that exceed standard size or weight limitations may need to be checked in at the ticket counter instead of the gate.
Stroller Check-In Options
Turkish Airlines provides two main ways to check in your stroller:
1. Check-In at Baggage Drop
If you do not need the stroller in the terminal or prefer to travel light through the airport, you can check the stroller along with your luggage at the check-in counter. It will be tagged and placed in the aircraft’s hold.
This is the most common option for larger or non-collapsible strollers.
2. Gate Check (Recommended for Families)
If you prefer to use the stroller through the terminal, Turkish Airlines typically allows you to keep it with you until you reach the gate or aircraft door. At that point:
The ground staff will take the stroller and place it in the hold.
Upon arrival, the stroller will either be returned at the aircraft door or sent to the baggage claim area.
This option is especially useful for parents with infants or toddlers who may need a stroller for long walks in the terminal or to soothe a tired child before boarding.
Turkish Airlines Stroller Policy by Flight Type
The Turkish Airlines stroller policy is consistent across most routes, but how strollers are handled can vary depending on whether you’re flying domestically or internationally.
Domestic Flights (within Turkey)
Stroller check-in is quick and efficient.
Most strollers are returned at the aircraft door or nearby.
Gate check is widely supported.
International Flights
Gate check is available on most routes.
Return location may vary (aircraft door or baggage claim).
In some international airports, strollers must be picked up from the oversized baggage area.
For long-haul flights, many parents choose compact travel strollers that fit into the overhead compartment. Although Turkish Airlines does not officially allow cabin strollers on all aircraft, some ultra-compact models may be permitted depending on aircraft type and available space.
Stroller Tagging and Handling
When you hand over your stroller, whether at check-in or the gate, the staff will:
Attach a special luggage tag with your flight and destination information.
Provide a baggage receipt or claim tag.
Offer guidance on where and when to retrieve the stroller after landing.
It is always a good idea to label your stroller with your name, phone number, and flight details in case it gets misplaced.
Cabin Strollers: Can You Bring a Stroller Onboard?
Some parents prefer using compact strollers that can be brought into the cabin. While Turkish Airlines doesn’t explicitly mention a cabin stroller policy on its website, passenger experience suggests that certain small, foldable strollers (like the Babyzen YOYO or similar models) may be allowed onboard as carry-on luggage.
However, this is subject to:
Aircraft space availability
Size and weight restrictions for cabin baggage
Cabin crew discretion
If you’re considering this option, check the dimensions of your stroller and confirm with Turkish Airlines customer service before your flight.
Turkish Airlines Stroller Policy for Transit Flights
If you’re flying through Istanbul or making an international connection with Turkish Airlines, stroller handling is especially important. Here’s what to expect:
Short layovers: Strollers may be returned at the gate.
Long layovers: Your stroller may be sent to the final destination, and airport staff may provide a temporary stroller.
At Istanbul Airport: Family services include stroller loan options for passengers in transit.
Always check with staff at your departure and layover airports to know exactly where to collect your stroller.
Turkish Airlines Stroller Policy for Twin Strollers
Parents of twins often rely on double strollers, but handling them at airports can be more complex.
What to Know:
Foldable twin strollers are usually accepted.
Oversized or heavy double strollers may need to be checked at the counter.
Some aircraft doors or gates may not accommodate wide strollers, requiring special arrangements.
Contact Turkish Airlines in advance to confirm that your twin stroller will be accepted and handled properly.
Turkish Airlines Baggage Allowance for Strollers
Under the Turkish Airlines stroller policy, one stroller or baby carriage per infant or child is allowed free of charge and does not count against your standard baggage allowance.
This applies whether the stroller is checked at the gate or counter.
There is no additional fee unless the stroller is oversized or considered part of excess baggage for unrelated reasons (such as extra baby equipment or multiple strollers).
Tips for Using a Stroller on Turkish Airlines Flights
1. Choose a Lightweight, Foldable Model
A compact stroller makes life easier at security checks, boarding, and baggage reclaim.
2. Label Your Stroller
Include your name, phone number, and flight details on the stroller in case it gets lost or delayed.
3. Protect Your Stroller
Use a stroller bag or cover to prevent damage during transport.
4. Arrive Early
Gate-check requests are easier to accommodate if you’re early. Ask the staff how your stroller will be returned.
5. Keep Essentials Handy
Since you’ll hand over the stroller before boarding, have a baby carrier or sling to keep your hands free during boarding and disembarking.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I bring a stroller and car seat for free?
Yes. Turkish Airlines allows one stroller and one car seat per child for free. However, only one item can be brought to the gate; the other must be checked.
Q2: Will I get my stroller back at the aircraft door?
Often yes, but it depends on the airport. In some international destinations, strollers are returned at the baggage claim or oversized luggage area.
Q3: Can I use my stroller during a layover?
If your layover is long, Turkish Airlines may deliver your stroller at the gate. Otherwise, it might go directly to the final destination. Ask at the transfer desk.
Q4: What if my stroller is damaged during the flight?
Report any damage immediately to the Turkish Airlines baggage services counter upon arrival. Compensation or repair is typically offered based on the situation.
Q5: Is there a weight limit for strollers?
While Turkish Airlines doesn’t specify a weight limit, heavy or large strollers may need to be checked as regular baggage.
Conclusion
Flying with young children requires extra preparation, and having a reliable stroller is one of the best ways to manage the journey. Fortunately, the Turkish Airlines stroller policy is designed with families in mind, offering flexibility, free allowance, and support throughout the travel process. Whether you're traveling domestically or internationally, Turkish Airlines allows one stroller per child at no additional cost. You can usually use the stroller up to the boarding gate, and depending on the route and airport, it will be returned at the aircraft door or baggage claim.
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