Turkey targets global aviation leadership and e-commerce hub status

At the 1st National Aviation Council Monitoring and Evaluation Summit, Turkish Minister of Transport and Infrastructure Abdulkadir Uraloğlu outlined the country’s strategic goals for civil aviation. Leveraging Turkey’s position at the intersection of Asia, Europe, and Africa, the government aims to transform Istanbul Airport into a global e-commerce hub through customs integration and improved logistics.

Uraloğlu reported significant growth in the sector over the last two decades. The number of active airports is set to increase from 58 to 60 with the completion of the Yozgat and Bayburt-Gümüşhane airports. Passenger numbers are projected to reach 247 million by 2025. Additionally, the total number of aircraft is expected to rise to 2,562 by late 2026, while cargo capacity is forecasted to grow from 303,000 kilograms to 2.9 million kilograms.

To enhance competitiveness, seasonal 50% discounts currently applied at Antalya, Adnan Menderes, Dalaman, and Bodrum airports will be extended throughout the year as part of the 2026 tariff revisions. The Minister also noted that negotiations by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation have secured 890 additional weekly passenger and cargo traffic rights over the last four years. Turkey is also seeking election to the Council of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) to participate directly in global aviation policy-making.