Important statements from THY Chairman Ahmet Bolat regarding the Swiss market and Geneva operations
Ahmet Bolat, Chairman of the Board and Executive Committee of Turkish Airlines, evaluated THY’s growth in the region and future plans during his visit to Geneva, Switzerland, as part of the IATA and Star Alliance meetings.
In his statement, Bolat highlighted the importance of Switzerland in terms of tourism and economy, saying:
“Switzerland, a country of around 9 million people and a global centre for finance, watches and chocolate, was visited by approximately 20 million tourists in 2024. Around 400 thousand Swiss tourists also chose our country last year.”
THY has been growing in Switzerland since 1967
Providing information about Turkish Airlines’ operations in Switzerland, Bolat noted that the flight network has expanded significantly over the years:
- Zurich flights began in 1967,
- Geneva flights in 1972,
- and Basel flights in 1979.
Today, THY’s weekly flight capacity to Switzerland is as follows:
- Zurich: 28 flights,
- Geneva: 21 flights,
- Basel: 12 flights,
Thus, a total of 61 frequencies are operated.
Bolat announced that this capacity will be increased to 70 weekly flights in the 2026 summer season.
Stating that 2.6 million passengers were carried on Swiss routes over the last 3 years, Bolat also emphasised that Turkey’s advantages in healthcare services have boosted demand in this market, saying:
“Due to services such as healthcare and dental treatment being much more accessible in modern facilities in Turkey, we are intensifying our health tourism initiatives for the Swiss market.”
International organisations hub: Geneva
Emphasising that Geneva is a critical city for international diplomacy and economy, Bolat said:
“Geneva hosts many organisations such as the UN Office, World Health Organization, World Trade Organization, International Labour Organization, UNHCR, ITU and the International Red Cross. It is also home to prestigious watch brands and multinational companies.”
Bolat added that the region’s potential in winter sports, skiing, thermal tourism and gastronomy could further increase demand for Turkey, and stated that business partnerships should be strengthened.
“We are proud of our Geneva team’s high performance”
Bolat also provided information about THY’s Geneva operations:
- The Geneva Office is managed by a team of 15 people, and the Swiss French canton, which represents 33% of the market, is served with 3 daily flights.
Chairman Bolat concluded his remarks by presenting certificates of appreciation to the team members who performed at a high level throughout 2025, and said:
“We thank all our colleagues who contributed to the success of our Geneva Office and wish them continued success.”
