Turkish Airlines reports strong passenger growth in January 2026

Turkish Airlines has announced robust operational results for January 2026, carrying a total of 7.6 million passengers. The flag carrier of Türkiye reported a 12.4% year-on-year increase in passenger numbers, alongside an improved load factor of 84%, according to a filing with the nation's Public Disclosure Platform (KAP) on Monday.

Growth across domestic and international routes

The airline's performance was strong across both domestic and international markets. The number of passengers flying on international routes reached 3.1 million, a 10.8% increase. Operational efficiency remained high, with an international passenger load factor of 83.7% and a domestic load factor of 87.5%. The company's capacity, measured in available seat kilometers, rose by 6.4% to 23.7 billion.

Cargo operations and fleet expansion

The cargo and mail division of Turkish Airlines also saw substantial growth, with volume surging 18.8% year-on-year to 178,303 tons in January. This underscores the airline's dual strength in both passenger transport and global logistics. The carrier continues to expand its operational assets, with its total fleet size reaching 522 aircraft by the end of the reporting month.

Strategic position and industry context

The positive January figures reinforce Turkish Airlines' position as a major global connector, leveraging its Istanbul hub. The consistent growth in passenger numbers and cargo volume indicates sustained demand and effective network management. As a key component of Türkiye's transportation and tourism sectors, the airline's performance is closely watched as an indicator of broader economic and travel trends.