The unveiling of the 500th aircraft, named ‘TK Family’, featuring a special livery designed with photographs of Turkish Airlines’ 100,000 employees and retirees, took place in Istanbul in the presence of TK Chairman of the Board and the Executive Committee, Prof. Ahmet Bolat.
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As part of this unveiling, the “TK Family” aircraft performed a special ceremonial flight, tracing the number 500 in the sky to mark the beginning of the airline’s ‘Second 500’ era. Operated under flight number TK500, the flight carried the children of martyrs and their families, along with Turkish Airlines executives, former senior executives, and employees.
Aircraft representing key milestones in Turkish Airlines’ fleet expansion were also showcased at the event venue, alongside a full-scale replica of the airline’s first aircraft, drawing significant interest.
“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. Having considerably accelerated our journey to the top after 2003 with 65 aircraft, today we take pride in reaching 356 destinations across six continents with over 500 aircraft. Twelve years ago, when we filmed our ‘When You Dream’ commercial with 247 aircraft and 247 destinations, the 500th aircraft was a dream. Witnessing that dream become reality today holds a special meaning for the entire Turkish Airlines family. 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”, said Prof. Ahmet Bolat.
Fleet milestone aircraft:
100th aircraft– August 2006
200th aircraft– November 2012
300th aircraft– February 2016
400th aircraft– March 2023
500th aircraft– December 2025
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.
