Within the scope of its TRY 100 billion investment programme for 2026, Turkish Airlines (THY) is preparing to lay the foundations for several projects at Istanbul Airport, including the world’s largest air cargo terminal and an in-flight catering facility.
Turkish Airlines will hold a comprehensive ground-breaking ceremony at Istanbul Airport for its major investment projects to be implemented in 2026. The ceremony, scheduled for Thursday, 8 January, is expected to be attended by the Minister of Transport and Infrastructure Abdulkadir Uraloğlu, Chairman of the Board of Directors and the Executive Committee of THY Prof. Dr Ahmet Bolat, and many invited guests.
The World’s Largest Air Cargo Terminal to Be Built
As part of the total TRY 100 billion investment, the foundation will be laid for a facility with an annual capacity of 4.5 million tonnes, which will have the distinction of being the world’s largest air cargo terminal. While the project will strengthen THY’s leadership target in the global air cargo market, it will also reinforce Istanbul Airport’s position as an international logistics hub.
Catering Facility for 500,000 People Per Day
Within the investment programme, a new in-flight catering facility with a daily capacity of 500,000 people will also be established. With this facility, as THY’s flight network expands, the efficiency of catering operations and service quality will be elevated to the highest level.
Major Leap in Technology and Maintenance Infrastructure
Within the framework of its 2026 investments, THY will:
- Increase its existing technology capacity fivefold by establishing two new data centres
- Implement Europe’s largest next-generation wide-body engine maintenance centre
These investments are aimed at significantly increasing the airline’s operational sustainability and technical independence.
New Employment for 26,000 People
Turkish Airlines plans to create new employment for 26,000 people through these projects. The investments are expected to make a significant contribution to both the aviation sector and the Turkish economy.
“This Pride Is Ours”
THY shared its statement regarding the investments with the public via its social media accounts. The statement included the following remarks:
“Türkiye is growing, Turkish Airlines is spreading its wings. With a TRY 100 billion investment, we are building the world’s largest cargo terminal and an in-flight catering facility, and together we are building the future with 26,000 new jobs. As Türkiye’s flag carrier airline, this pride is ours.”
