Could you introduce yourself?
My name is Nüket Angın. I was born on 27 February 1969 in Istanbul. I grew up in Bakırköy as the youngest child in a family with two children, in a residential complex with a large garden. I had a very free childhood, playing outdoors year-round with friends of different ages and cultures, climbing trees and spending most of my time outside.
From a very young age, my biggest dream was to see different countries and experience different cultures. My mother, with the importance she placed on education and her strong character, played a decisive role not only in my academic journey but also in shaping me into a woman who stands on her own feet and does not shy away from responsibility.
After primary school, the disciplined and multicultural education I received at Sainte Pulchérie French Girls’ Middle School and Notre Dame de Sion French Girls’ High School helped me view the world from a broader perspective. I completed my university education in Tourism and Hotel Management at Istanbul University and began my career in the hospitality sector after graduation.
When did you enter the aviation industry?
I entered aviation in 2000, after a friend shared a Sales Manager job posting at Czech Airlines with me.
Which companies have you worked for in the sector?
My aviation career began with Czech Airlines and continued with Gulf Air. Later, upon the recommendation of a former colleague from Gulf Air, I joined Air Arabia, where I have now been working for 17 years.
When did you take your first flight?
I don’t remember the exact date of my first flight, but from that day on, the aeroplane became more than just a means of transportation; it became a natural part of my life.

Have you had a moment in your career when you felt, “I’ve succeeded”?
Absolutely. The roles I undertook in the Commercial Department allowed me to progress at every stage of my career with a focus on clear targets, measurable results, and sustainable growth. From the very first company I worked for, my core approach was not only to achieve defined goals but to consistently add greater value to every organization I was part of.
Increasing flight frequencies in the Turkish market, opening new destinations, restructuring operations based on efficiency and profitability, and ensuring sustainable growth and profitability across the countries under my responsibility became key milestones in this journey.
2025 was one of the clearest periods in which the tangible outcomes of this approach were realized. In all five countries under my responsibility, we achieved passenger volumes and revenues significantly above budget.
What has been your most interesting moment in aviation?
Aviation is a sector full of interesting moments, so it’s hard to choose just one. Perhaps the most unusual was at Sabiha Gökçen Airport, when two Air Arabia flights, from Morocco and the UAE, were boarding at adjacent gates at the same time. Four students mistakenly boarded the Morocco flight instead of their connecting flight to India, forcing open the gate between the jet bridges. They only realized their mistake upon arriving in Morocco.
On the other hand, one of the most wonderful experiences was visiting the Airbus factory in France and witnessing the delivery of a brand-new aircraft.

What would you like to see in the future of aviation?
First and foremost, I want to see more passionate and committed young professionals in the industry. It is essential that young people are raised not only with technical knowledge, but also with vision, empathy, and global awareness, professionals who speak foreign languages, are open to change, and are not afraid to take responsibility.
I also envision a future of aviation where women are more visible at every level, where equal opportunity is genuinely felt, and where sustainability and a people-centric approach are placed at the core of the industry.
What advice would you give young aviation professionals, especially women, when shaping their career paths?
Aviation can be very demanding if it’s not something you truly love. My strongest advice to young professionals, especially women, is to choose this path consciously but bravely. Challenges are inevitable, and as a woman, you may sometimes need to put in twice the effort.
However, when you work with passion, remain open to learning, and believe in yourself, aviation offers more than a profession; it gives you a powerful identity and an unlimited vision. Not giving up, continuously improving yourself, and being able to say “I belong here” are the most valuable keys to this journey.

What advice would you give women trying to balance both career and personal life in such a demanding sector?
Balancing career and personal life in a demanding industry like aviation is not easy, especially for women; this balance often requires a conscious effort. My most important advice is to clarify priorities instead of trying to do everything at once, and to be fair to yourself.
Focus on sustainability, not perfection.
Don’t hesitate to ask for support, learn to set boundaries, and most importantly, allow yourself time without feeling guilty. Remember: a woman who is happy and balanced is far stronger both in her career and in her life.
Which female leader inspires you most?
The woman who has inspired me the most is Türkan Saylan. A life devoted to knowledge, science, and conscience, despite all challenges, especially to the education of girls.
Her stance shows that true leadership is not measured by titles, but by impact, courage, and a sense of responsibility toward society. Türkan Saylan is one of the strongest examples of how what is considered “impossible” can be achieved through belief, determination, and love for humanity.
