Turkish Airlines Posts USD 1.1 Billion Operating Profit in Q3 2025, Moves Closer to 2033 Growth Targets

From Dooshima Terkura, Makurdi

Turkish Airlines has reported a profit from main operations of USD 1.1 billion for the third quarter of 2025, reflecting strong operational resilience and sustained global demand across its network.

Chairman of the Board and Executive Committee, Prof. Ahmet Bolat, who disclosed this in a statement on Monday, said the achievement demonstrates the airline’s continued progress toward its 2033 Strategic Goals.

According to Bolat, total revenues for the July–September 2025 period increased by 4.9% year-on-year to approximately USD 7 billion, bringing cumulative revenues for the first nine months of the year to USD 17.8 billion. Profit from main operations stood at USD 1.1 billion for the quarter and USD 1.7 billion for the January–September period.

He revealed that Turkish Airlines’ consolidated assets rose to USD 43.2 billion, while total employment, including subsidiaries, surpassed 101,000. The airline invested USD 3.6 billion during the first nine months of the year as part of its long-term investment strategy.

Despite global challenges such as trade disruptions and aircraft engine-related constraints, the carrier recorded its highest-ever third-quarter passenger figure, transporting 27.2 million passengers during the period.

The airline has now achieved 18 consecutive quarters of growth, with passenger capacity up 8.2% year-on-year and 43% above pre-pandemic levels. Passenger revenues grew by 6.1%, supported by solid demand and expanded capacity, while total revenues increased by 4.9%. Although yield softening and cost pressures affected profitability, Turkish Airlines maintained a strong EBITDAR of USD 2.1 billion, representing a margin of 29.6%.

Prof. Bolat stated, “The profit we achieved in the third quarter of 2025 once again underscores Turkish Airlines’ adaptability under diverse operational conditions through its diversified revenue structure. As Türkiye’s most valuable global brand and a recognized leader in the aviation industry, we remain committed to sustainable growth and long-term success in line with our 2033 strategy.”

He further disclosed that Turkish Airlines continued to enhance its international partnerships during the quarter, signing new codeshare agreements and finalizing an acquisition deal with Air Europa, one of Spain’s leading airlines, for a minority stake.

“This partnership will strengthen global connectivity, boost cargo and passenger traffic between Türkiye and Spain, and support Türkiye’s tourism growth by opening new markets in Latin America,” Bolat added.

As of September 2025, the airline’s fleet had expanded by 8.4% year-on-year to 506 aircraft, despite production bottlenecks in the aviation sector.

To support its long-term expansion plan, Turkish Airlines concluded negotiations with Boeing for 50 firm and 25 option orders of B787-9/10 aircraft, alongside 100 firm and 50 option orders of B737-8/10 MAX jets—part of its ambition to grow its fleet to over 800 aircraft by 2033.

With strong October performance showing a 19% rise in passenger numbers and a 16% increase in cargo volume, Bolat said the airline expects its 2025 year-end EBITDAR margin to remain within the 22–24% range, consistent with its strategic projections.

He reaffirmed Turkish Airlines’ commitment to advancing confidently toward its 2033 Centennial Strategy, strengthening its global leadership position while creating sustainable value for stakeholders and contributing significantly to Türkiye’s economic development.