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From Scholastica Hir, Makurdi
Turkish Airlines, which operates one of Europe’s youngest fleets, has unveiled its 500th aircraft, named ‘TK Family’, marking another significant milestone in its journey that began in 1933.
The airline, which started with a modest fleet of five aircraft, unveiled the new plane—delivered at the end of 2025—during a special launch event by the Turkish flag carrier.
Turkish Airlines Chairman of the Board and Executive Committee, Prof Ahmet Bolat, disclosed this in a statement issued to our correspondent on Tuesday.
The statement said 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, which held 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. 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.
Speaking at the event, Turkish Airlines Chairman of the Board and Executive Committee, Prof Ahmet Bolat, said: “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.
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“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.”
As part of the 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.
The fleet milestone aircraft were introduced as follows: 100th aircraft, August 2006; 200th aircraft, November 2012; 300th aircraft, February 2016; 400th aircraft, March 2023; while the 500th aircraft was unveiled in December 2025.
While continuing to enhance operational efficiency and passenger comfort through investments in modern aircraft, Prof Bolat said Turkish Airlines remains committed to strengthening its fleet in line with its sustainable growth strategy.
