Originally Posted by
Skipness One Echo
Why not IST-LAX direct?
Because IST-LAX is 6871 miles going off the Great Circle Mapper. This is greater than the range of TK's 330s, and on the margins of their 340s. Their 773ERs will be capable, but maybe that is too much capacity to start off the route with.
Could all be pie in the sky, but there are valid reasons why a one-stop IST-LAX service may be preferable, especially if routing via an airport that doesn't serve west coast USA, and (if) fifth freedom traffic is allowed.