Türkiye’s flag carrier Turkish Airlines is set to become one of the world’s top five airlines by 2033, when its fleet is expected to reach 813 aircraft, according to the company’s CEO Bilal Ekşi.

Speaking in Rize on the Black Sea coast, Ekşi said the airline sees itself as the carrier of Türkiye’s 84 million people, The Caspian Post reports, citing Turkish media.

He highlighted the company’s rapid growth, noting that Turkish Airlines’ fleet has expanded from just 65 aircraft in 2003 to 514 today.

Ekşi stated that 2033 will mark the airline’s 100th anniversary and a major milestone in its expansion plans. “By 2033, we will reach 813 aircraft. At that level, we will be among the top five airlines in the world,” he said, adding that nearly 600 aircraft have already been ordered and are expected to join the fleet over the next 10 to 12 years.

He emphasized that all aircraft financing will be met through the airline’s own resources. “In effect, we are building a second Turkish Airlines over the next decade. We are doubling the size of the company,” Ekşi said.

Reflecting on the airline’s transformation, Ekşi recalled that in 2003 Turkish Airlines ranked 35th globally by fleet size, flew to 55 countries and served 103 destinations. “At that time, it was a boutique airline. Today, we have figures that make the entire nation proud,” he said.

Ekşi also pointed out that Turkish Airlines currently flies to more countries than any other airline in the world. “We operate in 132 countries with 514 aircraft and hold the ninth-largest fleet globally. This is a major achievement for the Turkish people and a source of pride for our youth,” he said.

Stressing the scale of the airline’s global network, Ekşi noted a significant gap with competitors. “No other airline comes close. The nearest rivals fly to around 86 countries. Ethiopian Airlines and Air France serve 83 countries, while British Airways flies to 79,” he said. With operations in 132 of the world’s 193 countries, Ekşi added that Turkish Airlines can currently reach about 95% of the globe using its own aircraft.