Could you please introduce yourself?
My name is Berna Turan. I was born in Erzurum, and I completed my primary, secondary, high school, and university education in Istanbul. I started my professional career, aviation, in fact, immediately after graduating from university. The discipline, sense of responsibility, and work ethic I gained from my family form the foundation of my leadership approach today.
When did you enter the aviation industry?
I started in aviation as soon as I graduated from university. I had no prior experience when I took my first step into the industry, but I truly fell in love with aviation and continue to work in it to this day. I learned aviation by working at the very core of the business, from the ground up.
Which companies have you worked for in the sector?
I entered the aviation industry in 1993 by joining EgyptAir. After working there for nearly 30 years and retiring, I worked as the Agency’s Manager at İstyatur Travel Agency. I later returned to the airline industry and currently work as Sales Manager at Jazeera Airways. My work has focused on sales, business development, and airline, agency relations. The experience I gained in different markets strengthened both my strategic perspective and leadership instincts.
Have you ever had a moment in your career when you thought, “I did it”?
Moments when I successfully sustained partnerships under challenging conditions and brought long-term projects to life are truly valuable to me and among the moments I feel most proud of personally.
What has been your most memorable moment in aviation?
In 1996, an EgyptAir Boeing 707 aircraft veered off the runway at Atatürk Airport and collided with a taxi on the road. As someone new to the industry at the time, it was a critical crisis moment that gave me invaluable experience. Managing passenger evacuation and navigating the difficult aftermath taught me one of the most important lessons of my career: staying calm and solution-oriented during a crisis is essential.
What would you like to see in the future of aviation?
I want to see more women in decision-making roles, more visible female leaders, and equal opportunities. Women should not only be in supportive roles but also naturally represented in strategic positions. In recent years, we’ve seen women taking on very important strategic roles, which makes me proud as a woman.
What advice would you give to young aviators, especially women, as they plan their careers?
Believe in yourself, never stop learning, and don’t be afraid to make mistakes. Build your own leadership style without compromising who you are. Patience and consistency are the most important keys on this journey.
Which woman leader inspires you the most?
Rather than naming a single individual, women who stand strong despite challenges and inspire other women through their courage are my true sources of inspiration.