IGA Istanbul Airport continues to achieve success on the global aviation stage. Selahattin Bilgen, CEO of IGA Istanbul Airport, has been elected as a member of the Airports Council International (ACI) World Governing Board, one of the most significant umbrella organizations in the global aviation industry.
This decision, made at the ACI World General Assembly, marks a significant development that strengthens Türkiye’s growing influence and leadership in the aviation sector. For the next three years, Bilgen will represent Türkiye on the ACI World Governing Board, working alongside CEOs of Europe’s largest airports and contributing to shaping global aviation policies.
ACI World and Türkiye’s Place in Global Aviation
ACI World is an international organization operating in 169 countries, representing 2,110 airports with a total of 814 members, making it one of the most influential organizations supporting the development of the aviation industry.
ACI World Board Members:
- Have the authority to represent their countries on a global scale
- Contribute to strategic decision-making for the aviation sector
- Play a role in shaping international aviation policies
This international representation secured by IGA Istanbul Airport will further enhance Türkiye’s global aviation prestige.
Selahattin Bilgen’s Statement
Speaking about his election to the ACI World Governing Board, Selahattin Bilgen said:
“I am deeply honored to be elected to this prestigious role. As IGA Istanbul Airport, we will continue contributing to the growth of the global aviation industry. These developments, which elevate Türkiye’s international aviation prestige, bring significant benefits to both the industry and the national economy. Through our role on the ACI World Board, we will actively participate in making strategic decisions that shape the future of our industry and continue to represent Türkiye in the best possible way on the international aviation stage.”
Bilgen has been serving as a Board Member of ACI Europe since January 2024. Now, by joining the ACI World Board, he has taken on the responsibility of representing Türkiye on a global scale.
ACI Europe General Assembly Held in Istanbul
One of ACI’s most prestigious events, the 34th Annual General Assembly of the Airports Council International Europe, was held in Istanbul from July 1–4, 2024.
Bilgen emphasized that this event further solidified Türkiye’s position on the international aviation stage. During the congress:
- Over 500 airport professionals and senior executives came together
- Key aviation trends and policies were discussed
- Istanbul’s pivotal role in international aviation was highlighted
Furthermore, Istanbul is set to host the ACI World “Customer Experience Summit” in 2026.
Bilgen noted that his new role on the ACI World Board will further strengthen Istanbul’s influence in the aviation sector and IGA’s global leadership.
Türkiye’s Global Power in the Aviation Sector
IGA Istanbul Airport’s strategic location, modern infrastructure, and focus on passenger experience have made it one of the world’s most important global transfer hubs. Representation on the ACI World Board will allow Türkiye to play a more active role in aviation decision-making processes.
With this development, Türkiye will:
- Play a more active role in shaping global aviation policies
- Have a voice in making strategic decisions that shape the future of aviation
- Position IGA Istanbul Airport as a global benchmark
This milestone not only elevates Türkiye’s aviation presence but also reinforces its influence as a key player in the global aviation landscape.
