SunExpress, a joint venture between Turkish Airlines and Lufthansa, has celebrated the first graduates of its JetStream Leadership Program, launched in 2024 to support the professional development of its employees and enhance their leadership competencies.
JetStream was designed to help SunExpress employees improve their leadership skills, gain deeper insights into various functions within the aviation industry, and strengthen their strategic perspectives. The program was implemented in collaboration with the Frankfurt University of Applied Sciences. In its first year, 14 employees from diverse departments—cabin crew, cockpit, line maintenance, and ground services—successfully completed the program.
As part of the JetStream Program, participants underwent an intensive seven-month training process, both on the Frankfurt University of Applied Sciences campus and online. The curriculum included courses on strategic aviation management, global logistics, safety and risk management, sustainability, artificial intelligence, leadership, and communication. Participants also submitted academic theses. One of the key features that distinguishes JetStream from similar programs is that graduates earn 45 ECTS (European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System) credits, which are valid toward master’s degree programs. The program is set to continue in the coming term.
Yasin Öztürk, Director of Human Resources and Administrative Affairs at SunExpress, commented on the program:
“JetStream is not only an academic initiative but also a strong reflection of our vision to develop strategic and inspiring leaders. This program is a tangible example of the long-term investment we make in our colleagues and demonstrates our commitment to supporting their career journeys. We will continue to provide opportunities that support the development of all our employees and help them realise their full potential.”
SunExpress continues to run a range of training and career development programs to support its employees’ career journeys and contribute qualified talent to the aviation sector. These include the Multi-Crew Pilot Licence (MPL) Program, the Aircraft Maintenance Technician Career Development and Support Program in partnership with Eskişehir Technical University, the Flight Operations Specialist Training Program, the Women in Leadership Program in collaboration with Yale University, and various initiatives aimed at employing recent graduates.
