Türkiye to Construct World’s Largest Cargo Terminal

Türkiye’s national airline announced that it plans to construct the world’s largest cargo terminal along with a major in-flight catering complex.

Turkish Airlines (THY) said the project will involve an investment of approximately TL 100 billion, equivalent to more than $2.3 billion. The announcement was made on the carrier’s official NSosyal account, where it highlighted the airline’s rapid expansion alongside Türkiye’s economic growth.

According to THY, the new cargo and catering facilities are expected to generate around 26,000 jobs once completed. The airline described the initiative as a source of national pride, reflecting its role as the country’s flagship carrier.

While the company did not reveal the project’s exact location, industry observers believe Istanbul is the most likely site, as the city hosts Türkiye’s two largest airports.

Turkish Airlines ranks among the world’s leading carriers, transporting more than 85 million passengers annually and handling roughly 2 million tonnes of cargo each year.

Earlier this week, Chief Executive Officer Bilal Ekşi said the airline aims to be among the top five global airlines by 2033. As part of its long-term growth plan, THY expects its fleet to expand to 813 aircraft.

Ekşi noted that nearly 600 planes have already been ordered and are scheduled for delivery over the next decade to 12 years. As of the end of 2025, the airline operated 514 aircraft, placing it ninth globally by fleet size.

Turkish Airlines also says it serves more international destinations than any other airline, flying to 356 locations across 132 countries.

Passenger numbers continue to rise, with THY reporting an 8.4 percent year-on-year increase to 85.3 million travelers during the first 11 months of 2025—surpassing the total recorded for the entire previous year.