Hello!

I am currently BA, OWE and am thinking of applying for Turkish Airlines status challenge?

the context is I am looking for a one way fare from South Africa to Asia and SQ and Turkish have good fares. SQ is cheaper by 20% on some dates, in July 2026.

i am thinking of writing to Turkish airlines and ask if they could do a status challenge, and if they issue me a challenge, I would buy the business class ticket ahead of time.

I am abit worried cos the flight is about 7-8 months out, and the status challenge usually last 4 months. Furthermore, rules have changed that u must have at least one paid ticket with Turkish. So far, I only have redeemed tickets via Turkish programme and flown them on redemption, but not paid.

any one has similar experience? Sharing the context that I will go ahead to book if a status match is granted.