Turkish Airlines welcomes 500th aircraft

Turkey

Airbus A350 named “TK Aile” features images of 100,000 employees

Turkish Airlines has introduced its 500th aircraft, marking a symbolic moment in the carrier’s expansion. The Airbus A350, which joined the fleet at the end of 2025, is adorned with photographs of approximately 100,000 employees and retirees, underscoring the airline’s emphasis on its workforce.

The ceremony at Istanbul Airport brought together company executives, staff, aviation representatives and special guests, including children of martyrs from across Türkiye. A promotional film highlighting the aircraft, named “TK Aile” – meaning “family” – was screened during the event.

A milestone in long-term growth

Chairman Ahmet Bolat described the aircraft as a reflection of “93 years of effort, determination and common wisdom.” He highlighted the airline’s development from a fleet of 65 aircraft in 2003 to more than 500 today, serving 356 destinations on six continents.

Bolat characterised the milestone not as a conclusion but as the beginning of a “second 500” era. The airline has set a long-term target of expanding its fleet to 1,000 aircraft by 2036, reinforcing its ambition to position Türkiye as a global aviation hub.

Symbolic inaugural flight

Following the ceremony, a special “TK 500” flight departed from Istanbul Airport. During the flight, the aircraft traced the number “500” in the sky, visually marking the transition into the airline’s next phase of growth.