Nöbetçi Eczaneler
For nearly three decades, Nesrin has devoted her career to MEA. She began in the ticket sales department 28 years ago and today serves as the Country Manager of MEA Turkey. Normally, this position requires Lebanese nationality, but through her perseverance and determination, she proved that some barriers can be broken—reminding us of the importance of women’s resilience in aviation.
At Aviationext, we reached out to Nesrin Ceran Sander for an interview, and she kindly agreed. Here are the highlights of our conversation:
Where were you born? How was your education?
I was born in Istanbul on March 14, 1973—Turkey’s “Medicine Day.” Because of the significance of the day, my doctor gave me his own name. Throughout my school years, my teachers insisted that I should become a doctor. But since I was even afraid of seeing blood, I never considered it. Instead, I studied hospitality at AHMA College in England. After graduation, I returned to Turkey. By chance, I came across a job ad for Middle East Airlines in a newspaper, and since then, I’ve been with this company.
How did your aviation career begin?
I started in 1998 in the ticketing department. Since MEA was a small airline with limited staff, I wasn’t confined to ticketing only—I worked in operations, sales, accounting… nearly every department in aviation. I tried to learn as much as I could. I was promoted to Assistant Manager in a short time, and in 2016, I became the first foreign Country Manager in MEA’s history. Until then, the position was reserved for Lebanese nationals. I still serve in this role today.
When was your first experience with aviation?
In 1991, 36 years ago, I flew to London alone for the first time. It was an exciting trip and the start of a new chapter in my life.
What are some unforgettable memories from your 28 years?
In aviation, every day brings surprises—diverted flights, cancellations due to technical issues, handling hundreds of passengers, lost baggage, VIP guests… These are all part of our work. Although challenging at times, each experience has taught me a lot.
How was the COVID-19 period for you?
To say we never stopped during COVID would not be an exaggeration. We continued flying until Istanbul Airport closed, and afterward we operated repatriation flights. Masks, protective gear, thermometers, disinfectants—all became a part of our daily lives. I caught Covid several times, because passengers would hug and kiss us in gratitude when we found them seats. It was a period full of lessons. Most importantly, we learned that in aviation, you must be ready for anything at any time. Thanks to our adaptability, we quickly established order.
What do you hope to see in the future of aviation?
For me, the future of aviation is sustainable, fast, safe, and unifying. My greatest wish is to see aircraft powered by electricity or hydrogen. I hope ticket prices will fall to a level accessible to everyone, and that airports will become easier to navigate with smarter systems. But most importantly, I want the human factor to remain endless in aviation—because everything touched by people becomes more genuine and beautiful.
Who has been the most important female leader in your life?
My greatest idol has been Queen Elizabeth II. She began leading a major nation at a very young age. She was intelligent, egoless, always open to learning, loved nature and animals, had a strong sense of humor, and was admired and respected by her people. During my student years, I wrote her a letter expressing my admiration. Receiving a reply from Buckingham Palace with her signature remains one of the most precious memories of my life.
Can you tell us about your family?
I have two sons, one aged 11 and the other 16, both studying in London. My life is spent traveling between Turkey and England. My family’s support means everything to me.