Turkish Airlines Celebrates 500th Aircraft with Special Livery Honouring Its 100,000-Strong Workforce
Turkish Airlines, renowned for operating one of Europe’s youngest fleets, has reached a remarkable milestone in its storied journey that began in 1933 with a humble fleet of just five aircraft. At the end of 2025, the airline unveiled its 500th aircraft, named ‘TK Family’, during a prestigious event today at Istanbul Airport.
The aircraft’s unveiling was marked by a special livery, designed with photographs of Turkish Airlines’ 100,000 employees and retirees, symbolising unity and solidarity within the airline’s community. The event was attended by a wide array of dignitaries, including executives from Turkish Airlines and its subsidiaries, former senior officials, employees, retirees, and notable figures from the aviation sector.
The celebration also featured children of martyrs who sacrificed their lives for the Turkish nation, representing all 81 provinces of Türkiye, alongside the cast of Turkish Airlines’ memorable “Iğdır* (When You Dream)” commercial. This gathering once again highlighted that Turkish Airlines’ growth story is not only measured in numbers but also in shared effort, loyalty, and community spirit.
Turkish Airlines Chairman of the Board and the Executive Committee, Prof. Ahmet Bolat, stated at this momentous occasion: “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.”
As part of the celebration, the “TK Family” aircraft performed a ceremonial flight, tracing the number 500 across the sky to mark the start of the airline’s ‘Second 500’ era. Operated under flight number TK500, the flight carried children of martyrs and their families, along with Turkish Airlines executives, former senior officials, and employees.
Aircraft representing key milestones in Turkish Airlines’ fleet expansion were also showcased at the event, alongside a full-scale replica of the airline’s inaugural aircraft, attracting considerable interest.
The fleet milestone aircraft were introduced in the following years:
– 100th Aircraft – August 2006
– 200th Aircraft – November 2012
– 300th Aircraft – February 2016
– 400th Aircraft – March 2023
– 500th Aircraft – December 2025
While continuing to invest in modern aircraft to enhance operational efficiency and passenger comfort, Turkish Airlines remains committed to expanding its fleet in line with its sustainable growth strategy. The 500th aircraft is a testament not only to the airline’s current strength but also to 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.”