Can we get to know you? Where and when were you born, and could you tell us about your family life?
I was born in 1986 in Balıkesir. My childhood and youth were shaped in an environment where education was strongly supported not only in school but also within the family. This perspective instilled in me, from a very young age, a culture of continuous learning and self-improvement. I believe these core values continue to guide me in every step I take in my professional life today.
When did you first enter the aviation industry?
My journey in aviation began in 2012. Following a vacancy in the General Manager position at Paterna Group, I was appointed to the role on the recommendation of the company’s consultant. During this critical period, alongside my existing experience, I also began my undergraduate studies in Aviation Management in the same year to deepen my knowledge of the field. This gave me the opportunity to develop a holistic perspective on the sector, both academically and practically.
When was the first time you boarded a plane as a passenger, and where did you travel?
My first flight experience was in 2004. The destination was Dalaman Airport — the very place where I now oversee operations. This coincidence gave added meaning to the responsibilities I later assumed in Dalaman.
What sets your lounge apart from others around the world?
The most important distinction of Dalaman Airport’s lounge is our ability to reflect the richness of the region and our operational strength in the passenger experience.
Operationally, our lounge also makes a difference. Despite serving hundreds of passengers every day, we manage high passenger volumes with fast and seamless service. Our kitchen and service team operate at full capacity at all times: breakfast in the morning, hot lunches, and snacks throughout the day are carefully prepared fresh and timed according to flight schedules. This system not only meets the diverse needs of our passengers but also ensures consistent service standards at any hour.
Where do you see Paterna Group positioned in food and beverage services?
At Paterna Group, we see ourselves not just as an “airport food & beverage operator,” but as a player that shapes the overall passenger experience. Our aim is to transform our guests’ journeys from a mere transportation process into an enjoyable and memorable experience. We achieve this by collaborating with internationally recognized brands while also incorporating the region’s local flavors with modern presentations.
With our strong operational structure, food safety–focused processes, and sustainable relationships with local producers in the supply chain, we aim to become a reference brand in airport food & beverage services. Today, with the various concepts we operate in both domestic and international terminals, we lead the sector in terms of diversity, quality, and operational efficiency.
Which regional products from the Aegean and Mediterranean do you use in the lounge?
Being located at the crossroads of the Aegean and Mediterranean rivieras gives us a unique gastronomic advantage. Thanks to Dalaman Airport’s location, we have direct access to the fresh, local products of the region — from Fethiye to Marmaris, and Göcek to Dalyan. We bring this richness to our menu by combining the light and healthy flavors of the Aegean with the warm and rich tastes of the Mediterranean. From olive oil dishes and fresh herbs to local cheeses and seafood, we reinterpret many local products with a modern culinary approach. In doing so, we offer our guests not just a lounge experience, but also a special journey that reflects the cultural and gastronomic richness of this geography.
What has been the most memorable moment of your career in aviation?
One unforgettable moment was the day Dalaman Airport moved from Terminal 1 to Terminal 2. One day, we were serving at Terminal 1, and by the next morning, operations had begun at Terminal 2. Successfully relocating an entire structure overnight was one of the clearest demonstrations of teamwork and operational discipline.
Do you have plans to expand lounge services to other airports?
Our current lounge in Dalaman serves 1,400 passengers daily, and this number continues to grow each year. The region’s tourism potential and the airport’s growth momentum motivate us to scale our investments. Moving forward, Paterna aims to expand by carrying the operational strength and expertise we have gained in Dalaman to other airports as well. Within this scope, our priorities include developing alternative concepts for both domestic and international terminals, creating new lounges tailored to different market segments, and establishing a presence not only in Türkiye but also internationally. In short, we are determined to continue our investment plans so that the Paterna signature becomes a benchmark for excellence wherever we operate.
Which woman aviator do you see as a role model?
I don’t look up to a single person as an idol. However, I closely follow senior women executives working in airport operations both in the Middle East and Europe. Their leadership styles, decision-making processes, and international vision inspire me. I also deeply value the diversity and strength that women leaders bring to the sector.