Hi All,

I'm Star Gold with both Singapore and Asiana. I just flew (on a paid ticket) Business Class from Tokyo to Istanbul on TK an have a connecting Economy flight to Rome 5 hours later with TK.

On check-in, I was told the flight TK53 would depart 30 minutes earlier than expected, making my time in IST even longer but that because my long-haul flight was in Business and I will be transiting for between 4-7 hours, I could make use of the showers and suites in the lounge. Fantastic!

When I arrived at the lounge, the sign also said for long-haul business passengers (over 8 hours flying time) can use the suites.

But, they wouldn't let me in because my short-haul (2hr leg to Rome) is in Economy. Considering a) check-in staff at Tokyo told me I was eligible, b) on-board staff told me the same and c) the sign says it (with no mention of the short haul connecting flight), I'm really shocked.

I asked kindly to see the rules where it says something different to the sign posted out front but they just said "you are not allowed". Not even sorry.

So, my first time flying Turkish Airlines and I'm really disappointed (and sweaty).

Funny thing is, they said I am eligible to use the showers in the Arrivals Lounge (except I don't have a visa to exit!). Grrrr. Rant over :P