Istanbul Airlines Founded
Istanbul Airlines (İstanbul Hava Yolları) was a Turkish airline that operated from 1986 to 2000. Founded in December 1985 by private investors in Istanbul, the airline commenced operations on March 14, 1986, with aircraft such as the Sud Aviation Caravelle and BAC One-Eleven.
Expanding Capacity
Shortly after its inception, Istanbul Airlines absorbed Marmara Air, expanding its operational capacity. The fleet grew to include additional Caravelle aircraft in 1987 and a Boeing 737-400 in 1988, enabling the airline to secure contracts with various tour operators.
Leading Airlines
In the 1990s, Istanbul Airlines became one of Turkey’s leading charter airlines, modernizing its fleet with leased Boeing 727-200s, Boeing 737s, and Boeing 757s. Following the deregulation of Turkish air traffic, the airline began scheduled domestic flights in February 1996, although charter services remained its primary focus. By 1997, the airline held a 10% market share on charter routes to Turkey, operating 21 aircraft and transporting approximately 2.4 million passengers annually. Istanbul Airlines was the first Turkish airline to implement a vertically integrated business model, encompassing not only the airline but also a comprehensive ecosystem of aviation and tourism services. This structure included: • Aircraft Maintenance and Technical Services • In-flight Catering • Duty-Free Retail • Ground Handling Operations • Tour Operators • Hotel Management • Ticket Offices across Europe This level of vertical integration allowed Istanbul Airlines to manage the entire customer journey, from ticket sales to in-flight experience and destination services, ensuring quality control and streamlining costs.
Hotel Investments
1989 Loryma Resort Marmaris, 1990 Turunç Bay Conti Marmaris and 1993 Sonnen Hotel Marmaris, 1997 Belconti Resort Belek, 1999 Salamis Bay Conti Cyprus
Airport Services
The company continued as a premier airport ground handling service provider, specializing in a range of essential operations including aircraft handling, passenger services, cargo management, technical maintenance and ramp support. In addition to the ground services, the company operates a selection of duty-free shops offering premium products such as luxury goods, fragrances, cosmetics, and local souvenirs.
Hotel Investments
Blue Dreams Resort Bodrum
Air Taxi
In the latter part of 2024, Istanbul Airlines proudly marked its strategic return to the aviation sector, unveiling a new chapter in its storied legacy with the launch of exclusive Air Taxi and business jet services. This ambitious re-entry was headlined by the introduction of a Gulfstream G450 into its fleet—an aircraft renowned for its performance, comfort, and range. With this expansion into premium private aviation, Istanbul Airlines reinforces its commitment to innovation, flexibility, and personalized service, catering to the evolving needs of discerning travelers and business executives alike.