Turkish Airlines language service 'SmartMic' changes communication experience

The devices offer non-English-speaking passengers to easily communicate with the carrier’s staff. 

With the help of this distinctive communication experience; passengers can speak into the new device, supporting 52 languages and 72 accents, in their native tongue. The SmartMic then translates what is said into the staff member’s first language. 

Via a seven-inch screen on either side of the device, both the passengers and staff members can follow the real-time conversation, ensuring passengers receive the information they need swiftly and smoothly.

As the airline which flies to more countries than any other airline, Turkish Airlines has rolled out 100 SmartMic devices throughout its home hub in Istanbul, in addition to the regional Turkish airports of Adana, Ankara, Antalya, Bodrum, Dalaman and Izmir. The devices are due to be launched in the UK shortly, as Turkish Airlines continues to invest in its passengers.

Bilal Ekşi, Turkish Airlines CEO, said: “At Turkish Airlines, we are all about connecting the world and making travel accessible to everyone. Therefore, we are excited to introduce this innovative SmartMic device, which allows our passengers to speak to our staff in their own language when transiting through Türkiye. 

“We want to ensure our passengers have a smooth, seamless travel experience, whatever their nationality, and hope the SmartMic devices make their journey with Turkish Airlines even more enjoyable.” 

SmartMic devices were firstly introduced by Turkish Airlines in 2023, with plans to expand their usage across its global network throughout 2024.