Turkish Airlines has launched a major investment initiative valued at over ₺100 billion, aimed at strengthening Türkiye’s aviation infrastructure and enhancing the country’s competitive position in global air transport.
As part of the strategic move aligned with the national flag carrier’s 2033 vision, groundbreaking ceremonies were held for eight new facilities across multiple locations, with a primary focus on Istanbul Airport, the airline’s home base.
The disclosure was made on Monday by the Chairman of the Board and the Executive Committee of Turkish Airlines, Prof Ahmet Bolat, in a statement made available to The Sun.
According to Bolat, the ceremony at Istanbul Airport was attended by the Minister of Transport and Infrastructure of the Republic of Türkiye, Abdulkadir Uraloğlu, alongside senior executives of Turkish Airlines and its subsidiaries, as well as key stakeholders in the aviation sector.
Speaking at the event, Uraloğlu said the investments would mark a new milestone for Türkiye’s aviation industry.
“With a breakthrough that will leave its mark on the skies and further strengthen the wings of our national flag carrier, we will make a determined and ambitious start to 2026,” the minister said.
He noted that the eight projects represent critical steps toward Turkish Airlines’ ambition of becoming the world’s number one airline. He highlighted the second phase of the SmartIST air cargo terminal, which will increase cargo handling capacity from 2.2 million tons to 4.5 million tons, positioning Turkish Cargo for global leadership.
Uraloğlu added that the ₺100 billion investment package is expected to generate 26,000 new jobs in 2026, further expanding Türkiye’s aviation ecosystem and contributing significantly to the national economy.
Commenting on the initiative, Bolat said the airline is investing not only in fleet expansion but also in the infrastructure required to fully optimise its operational capacity.
“In line with our 2033 targets, we are developing robust infrastructure that will allow us to fully utilise our growing fleet,” he said.
Bolat explained that the investment programme spans cargo operations, technical maintenance, catering facilities, and integrated operational solutions, all designed to strengthen Turkish Airlines’ global competitiveness and reinforce Türkiye’s status as a leading international aviation hub.
He revealed that while the projects will create 26,000 new jobs in 2026, total employment is expected to rise to 36,000 once all phases are completed. He added that Turkish Airlines’ contribution to Türkiye’s economy currently stands at USD 65 billion and is projected to reach USD 144 billion upon achieving its 2033 goals.
Among the flagship projects outlined by Bolat is the Turkish Cargo SmartIST Phase 2 facility, which will rank among the world’s largest air cargo centres with an annual capacity of 4.5 million tons and is scheduled for phased completion between 2027 and 2028.
Other major projects include the Turkish Airlines Main Catering Facility, expected to be one of the world’s largest inflight catering centres, capable of serving over 500,000 passengers daily, and projected to become operational within the 2027–2028 period.
Bolat also highlighted the Turkish Technic Engine Maintenance Center, slated for completion in 2027, which will be among Europe’s largest next-generation aircraft engine maintenance facilities, with the capacity to service Rolls-Royce Trent XWB-84, Trent XWB-97, and Trent 7000 engines.
In addition, new aircraft maintenance hangars under Turkish Technic, planned for completion in 2026, will enable the simultaneous maintenance of 12 aircraft, increasing the airline’s current maintenance capacity by about 20 per cent.
Bolat expressed confidence that the investments lay the foundation for an integrated growth model that enhances operational capacity, technical infrastructure, and digital capabilities, while supporting Turkish Airlines’ ambition to rank among the world’s five largest airline fleets as it approaches its centennial.
