The aircraft, features a special livery design with photographs of Turkish Airlines’ 100,000 employees and retirees.

The launch event at Istanbul Airport was attended by executives from Turkish Airlines and its subsidiaries, former senior executives, employees and retirees, as well as prominent figures from the aviation industry.

It falls under the backdrop of a memorable journey that began in 1933 with a modest fleet of five aircraft.

The launch also featured children of martyrs who gave their lives for the Turkish nation, representing all 81 provinces of Türkiye, and the cast of Turkish Airlines' memorable Iğdır* (When You Dream) commercial.

Turkish Airlines chairman of the board and the executive committee Professor Ahmet Bolat said: “Our 500th aircraft represents far more than a new addition to our fleet; it stands as a symbol of 93 years of dedication, determination, and shared vision.

“Having considerably accelerated our journey to the top after 2003 with 65 aircraft, today we take pride in reaching 356 destinations across six continents with over 500 aircraft.

“Twelve years ago, when we filmed our ‘When You Dream’ commercial with 247 aircraft and 247 destinations, the 500th aircraft was a dream.

“Witnessing that dream become reality today holds a special meaning for the entire Turkish Airlines family.

“We see our 500th aircraft not as a milestone marking an end, but as the beginning of the 'Second 500' era. In line with our goal of reaching a fleet of 1,000 aircraft by 2036, we remain committed to positioning our country as one of the global hubs of aviation."

As part of this unveiling, the ‘TK Family’ aircraft performed a special ceremonial flight, tracing the number 500 in the sky to mark the beginning of the airline’s ‘Second 500’ era.

Aircraft representing key milestones in Turkish Airlines’ fleet expansion were also showcased at the event venue, alongside a full-scale replica of the airline’s first aircraft, drawing significant interest.