SunExpress CEO Max Kownatzki recently shared exciting updates about the airline’s growth and plans during a presentation in Antalya to commemorate the carrier’s 35th anniversary. Pilotcenter.net News got an exclusive look at the latest developments shaping SunExpress's journey towards success in 2024.

From humble beginnings in 1990 as a charter airline primarily servicing German tourists heading to the Turkish Riviera, SunExpress has since diversified its business landscape. Today, the airline boasts a robust operation that transported over 15 million passengers in 2024. While tour operators still contribute significantly to SunExpress' revenue, the carrier has been actively expanding its horizons by introducing new services and forming strategic partnerships with industry players.

Looking ahead, SunExpress aims to double its fleet size by 2035, a goal underscored by its order of 132 Boeing B737 MAX 8 aircraft, with plans to configure the MAX 10 model for enhanced capacity and extended reach to destinations like Iceland and India. Despite delays in aircraft deliveries, Kownatzki remains optimistic about the potential this new fleet will unlock for SunExpress's growth trajectory.

To combat the seasonality inherent in the aviation industry, SunExpress has implemented innovative strategies like catering to niche markets such as golf enthusiasts and offering a diverse array of experiences in Turkey to attract travelers year-round. The airline also capitalized on leasing opportunities by collaborating with Turkish Airlines subsidiary AJet and venturing into aircraft wet leases in the Southern hemisphere, with successful endeavors like the partnership with South African Airways.

SunExpress has been eyeing the British and Irish markets as promising avenues for expansion, complementing its existing network covering popular tourist destinations in Europe and the Middle East. As it continues to explore untapped opportunities, SunExpress remains committed to enhancing its role in the aviation value chain, including a robust training program that has groomed a new generation of skilled pilots.

With a vision for sustained growth and value creation in mind, SunExpress is poised to navigate the evolving aviation landscape with agility and innovation. As Kownatzki aptly put it, “There’s no other way than to keep working on delivering value,” a sentiment that encapsulates the airline’s unwavering commitment to excellence and innovation in the industry.