Turkish Airlines has marked a significant milestone in its long history with the unveiling of its 500th aircraft, a landmark moment for the carrier that began operations in 1933 with just five aircraft.
The new addition to the fleet, an Airbus A350 named TK Family, joined the airline at the end of 2025 and was formally presented during a special ceremony at Istanbul Airport. The aircraft carries a distinctive livery featuring photographs of the airline’s 100,000 employees and retirees, underlining the carrier’s emphasis on unity and shared achievement.
The launch event brought together senior executives from Turkish Airlines and its subsidiaries, former leaders, current employees and retirees, as well as representatives from across the aviation industry. In a symbolic gesture, children of martyrs from all 81 provinces of Türkiye were also invited to attend, alongside members of the cast from the airline’s well-known “When You Dream” (Iğdır) commercial.
Speaking at the ceremony, Chairman of the Board and Executive Committee Professor Ahmet Bolat described the 500th aircraft as a symbol of the airline’s long-term ambition and collective effort.
“Our 500th aircraft represents far more than a new addition to our fleet; it stands as a symbol of 93 years of dedication, determination and shared vision,” he said. “After accelerating our growth from 65 aircraft in 2003, we are now proud to serve 356 destinations across six continents with a fleet of more than 500 aircraft.”
Bolat added that the milestone marked the beginning of what the airline has termed its “Second 500” era, with a stated ambition to expand to a fleet of 1,000 aircraft by 2036 and further strengthen Türkiye’s position as a global aviation hub.
As part of the celebrations, the “TK Family” aircraft operated a special ceremonial flight, TK500, tracing the number 500 in the sky. On board were the children of martyrs and their families, alongside executives, former senior leaders and employees.
The event also showcased aircraft representing previous fleet milestones, as well as a full-scale replica of the airline’s first aircraft. Turkish Airlines’ fleet growth milestones were recorded as follows:
- 100th aircraft – August 2006
- 200th aircraft – November 2012
- 300th aircraft – February 2016
- 400th aircraft – March 2023
- 500th aircraft – December 2025
Operating one of Europe’s youngest fleets, Turkish Airlines continues to invest in modern aircraft to improve operational efficiency and passenger comfort, while pursuing a long-term strategy of sustainable expansion.
The delivery of the 500th aircraft not only reflects the airline’s current scale but also underlines its ambition to double its fleet over the next decade, as it continues to expand its global footprint.
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