Director General of Civil Aviation Kemal Yüksek announced that Turkey has increased its air cargo transportation capacity and that Istanbul Airport is becoming a global logistics hub.
Speaking at the ICAO Global Air Cargo Summit held in Antalya, Yüksek stated that Turkey has made significant progress in air cargo transportation, reaching a capacity of 2.7 million tons. He noted that this capacity was previously around 2.4 million tons and emphasized that Istanbul Airport is rapidly growing in the cargo sector, positioning itself as a global distribution center.
“Istanbul Is Advancing Toward Becoming a Logistics Gateway”
Highlighting Istanbul’s geographical advantage, Yüksek pointed out that the city is a strategic gateway between Europe, Asia, and the Middle East for cargo transportation. He noted that companies are continuing to expand their fleets and added that as Istanbul evolves into a logistics hub, growth in the sector will multiply.
“We are aiming not for a 15–30% increase, but exponential growth. We have the necessary experience, expertise, and infrastructure,” he said.
The Power of Air Cargo: Vital During Pandemics and Disasters
Yüksek recalled how Turkey’s strength in air cargo proved advantageous during the COVID-19 pandemic, enabling the transportation of masks and medical supplies. He also underlined the crucial role of air cargo in delivering aid and rescue equipment swiftly during disasters such as earthquakes.
Emphasis on Domestic Security Systems and Qualified Personnel
Kemal Yüksek mentioned that security screening systems for air cargo have been domestically developed in cooperation with TÜBİTAK. He also emphasized Turkey’s aim to become an international certification center to train qualified personnel in the cargo sector.
Goal: Hosting an ICAO Summit Every Year
Drawing attention to the participation of around 700 people from 80 countries, Yüksek said that hosting major ICAO events strengthens Turkey’s position and credibility in international aviation.
“We have made Turkish civil aviation sustainable, technology-driven, and data-oriented. We are determined to be the pioneering sector carrying the vision of a Great Turkey,” he stated.
More Efficient Operations Through New Regulations and Digitalization
Yüksek explained that the Directorate General of Civil Aviation has aligned national laws with international regulations, with amendments made to six laws last year and more to come this year. He also noted that digitalization will enable air cargo operations to be monitored more efficiently and cost-effectively.
