The special event at Istanbul Airport was attended by executives from the airline and its subsidiaries
Turkish Airlines, operating one of Europe’s youngest fleets, has reached another significant milestone in its journey that began in 1933 with a modest fleet of five aircraft, it was revealed via a press communique.
Joining the fleet at the end of 2025, the 500th aircraft named ‘TK Family’ was unveiled during a special launch event recently by the Turkish flag carrier.
The unveiling of the 500th aircraft, featuring a special livery designed with photographs of Turkish Airlines’ 100,000 employees and retirees, was held with wide and meaningful participation, reflecting the spirit of unity and solidarity.
The event at Istanbul Airport was attended by executives from Turkish Airlines and its subsidiaries, former senior executives, employees and retirees, as well as prominent figures from the aviation industry.
Commemoration
The launch also featured children of martyrs who gave their lives for the Turkish nation, representing all 81 provinces of Türkiye, and the cast of Turkish Airlines’ memorable Iğdır (When You Dream) commercial.
“We see our 500th aircraft not as a milestone marking an end, but as the beginning of the ‘Second 500’ era. In line with our goal of reaching a fleet of 1,000 aircraft by 2036, we remain committed to positioning our country as one of the global hubs of aviation,” asserted Prof. Ahmet Bolat, Turkish Airlines Chairman of the Board and the Executive Committee, speaking at a commemorative function.
Operational efficiency
While continuing to enhance operational efficiency and passenger comfort through investments in modern aircraft, Turkish Airlines remains committed to strengthening its fleet in line with its sustainable growth strategy.
The 500th Aircraft symbolizes not only the airline’s current strength, but also its vision of reaching a fleet of 1,000 aircraft by 2036.
Drawing strength from its heritage as it confidently moves toward the future, Turkish Airlines continues to write new success stories in global aviation, guided by its principle of ‘growing together, rising together’.
