Based on previous post, and great replies, I think we will pull the trigger on TK IAH-IST-NCE for an Autumn trip.

787-900 out of Houston, so that’s good.

Four and a half hour connection in IST. Kinda long but should give plenty of time to check out the famous lounge.

QUESTION about arrival. I understand there’s a dedicated immigration line for Premium Fare passengers. I also see that it’s difficult to find. Where is it?

But I have also read that connecting pax don’t have to go through customs and immigration. Just go from one gate to the next? (Maybe another security checkpoint?) Is it that simple?

Return flight: CDG-IST-IAH. Unfortunately, this is currently showing a 777-300ER with the 2/3/2 seating in Business Class. A middle seat in Business Class is crazy. Just curious if the Biz cabin is often full. On other carriers, my wife and I will normally choose the center section so we both have aisle access. Wondering what the chances are of having an empty middle seat if we select the two aisle seats of the center section? If available, I guess we could take the two on the window/aisle. Not ideal, but probably better than having aisle/middle in the center section.

Return flight is only two hours. Is that sufficient time? Probably will have to forego the lounge! I understand there’s a “short connection” desk somewhere. When would that come into play?

Thanks again.