NYC Mayor In Hot Water Over $120,000+ Free and Discounted Travel On Turkish Airlines

New York City Mayor Eric Adams was indicted today on charges that he accepted illegal campaign contributions and bribes from foreign nationals in exchange for favors. He’s being charged with conspiracy, wire fraud, and bribery charges. What I find most fascinating is the travel element of this case where allegedly he accepted more than $120,000 worth of free and discounted travel on Turkish Airlines.

NBC 4 New York reports that over the past decade, Adams reportedly accepted free and discounted trips. This began in 2014 while he was Brooklyn Borough President and continued after he became New York City Mayor in 2022. In addition to the airfare above, it’s interesting to note that this case also claims that he received suites at the St. Regis Istanbul, meals, and ground transportation. The indictment continues that Adams flew Turkish Airlines even when it wasn’t convenient or the most direct route. It states:

For example, during the July and August 2017 trip, Adams’ Partner was surprised to learn that Adams was in Turkey when she had understood him to be flying from New York to France. Adams responded, in a text message, ‘Transferring here. You know first stop is always instanbul [sic].’ When Adams’ Partner later inquired about planning a trip to Easter Island, Chile, Adams repeatedly asked her whether the Turkish Airline could be used for their flights, requiring her to call the Turkish Airline to confirm that they did not have routes between New York and Chile.”

None of the trips outlined above were disclosed. In June 2021, an Adams’ staffer requested a Turkish Airlines manager book tickets to Istanbul Airport (IST) for Adams and charge what could be seen as a “real” price for Economy Class, while providing an upgrade to Business Class. The messages exchanged have been obtained and read as follows:

Adams staffer: “How much does he owe? Please, let them call me and I will make the payment.”
Airline manager: “It is very expensive because it is last minute. I am working on a discount.”
Adams staffer: “Okay. Thank you.”
Airline manager: “I am going to charge $50”
Adams staffer: “No”
Airline manager: “That would work wouldn’t it”

Adams staffer: “No, dear. $50? What? Quote a proper price.”
Airline manager: “How much should I charge? :)”
Adams staffer: “His every step is being watched right now. $1,000 or so. Let it be somewhat real. We don’t want them to say he is flying for free. At the moment, the media’s attention is on Eric.”

The US attorney’s office in Manhattan alleges that Adams “solicited and demanded” bribes, including free or heavily discounted luxury travel benefits from a Turkish official. The official was seeking Adams’ help pertaining to regulations around constructing the Turkish consulate in Manhattan.

Anthony’s Take: NYC Mayor Adams was indicted today on conspiracy and bribery charges. The free and discounted travel allegedly provided here is fascinating and if these charges are true than he should step down from office.

(Featured Image Credit: Alireza Akhlaghi.)