With the increase in the number of pilots and intensified inspections, Türkiye aims for a strong position in global aviation competition.
Türkiye is preparing to take the lead in global competition by strengthening its human resources in civil aviation. According to data from the 2026 Central Government Budget Bill, the number of licensed pilots, which is expected to reach 16,939 by the end of 2024, is planned to increase to 18,127 by 2028. This growth is seen as the most concrete indicator of Türkiye’s stable expansion strategy in international aviation operations.
Momentum in Pilot Training Continues
The number of pilots, which stood at 16,290 last year, is expected to reach 17,102 in 2025 and 17,816 in 2027. Additionally, the number of balloon pilots—a special category in touristic flights—is projected to rise to 747 by 2028. These developments demonstrate the strengthening of both civil aviation training capacity and employment opportunities.
Record Increase in Safety and Inspections
Türkiye is not only increasing its number of pilots but also aiming to elevate aviation safety to the highest level. Civil aviation inspections, expected to total 1,708 in 2024, will rise to 2,664 by 2028—an increase of approximately 56% over four years. With this rise in inspections, the goal is to achieve full compliance with international standards in flight safety, maintenance processes, and operational procedures.
Alignment with International Standards Strengthens
Türkiye is focusing on full compliance with the standards of the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) and the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). The SAFA inspection score, expected to be 0.52 in 2024, is planned to drop to 0.4 in 2025 and remain at that level. Additionally, ICAO compliance ratios are being adjusted in line with new evaluation criteria, initiating a systematic improvement process.
This comprehensive strategy not only focuses on quantitative growth but also places emphasis on quality and safety in aviation. Efforts ranging from training to inspection, from legislation to international cooperation, are forming a solid foundation for Türkiye’s vision of becoming a regional hub in aviation.
