From Terminal Duty Officer to CEO!

When I started working as a Duty Terminal Officer at Atatürk Airport’s International Terminal on December 1, 1999, I knew almost nothing about aviation. I hadn’t even stepped into an airport before, let alone flown on a plane. I had applied for a job ad by TAV that read: “Information Officer Wanted at the Airport.” During the interviews, they told me I would be working in the baggage handling department; but at the end of the process, they said, “You’ve been hired as a Duty Terminal Officer.” When people asked what exactly that meant, I used to laugh and say, “To be honest, I’m not entirely sure myself.”

At that time, DHMI (State Airports Authority) was practically a school for aviation. TAV, with its experienced staff transferred from DHMI, blended us young newcomers into a strong team. I was fortunate to be part of that team. Today, I remember with gratitude and mercy those who are no longer with us: Gürbüz Akdemir, Hüseyin Ulukanlı, Köksal Ekim, Dilara Saydam, and Lemi Bilişli. I also want to extend my heartfelt thanks to Emin Çolpan and Ahmet Şahin, who are no longer active but played a major role in our growth. We learned so much from them.

With TAV’s rapid and strategic expansion, the company soon became a true aviation school. Many of our colleagues went on to serve in TAV’s international operations, representing both our company and our country with great success. Airports like Sabiha Gökçen and Istanbul Airport also benefited significantly from this accumulated expertise.

In recent years, this “school” mission has been carried forward by İGA. They are breaking records in passenger and aircraft traffic. Running such a large and complex operation 24/7 requires immense knowledge, planning skills, and experience. Reaching the top is difficult, but staying at the top takes even greater effort.

Lately, İGA has also become a major source of talent for international placements. The new focal point is now the Middle East. In a region long dominated by British and American professionals, our Turkish colleagues are now holding key positions. This is a source of pride. Yet, our potential is far greater. I believe our existing companies should better utilize the talents we already have and invest more in their development.

Participating in international conferences, taking on active roles in organizations like ACI, keeping up with current developments, and identifying and solving deficiencies are all ways to strengthen our global presence. More executives from Türkiye can and should take on important roles abroad.

Wishing clear skies ahead to all my colleagues. I hope to meet again in many more success stories…