Turkey has increased its forecast for air passenger traffic in 2026 to almost 259 million travellers, reflecting stronger-than-expected demand across both domestic and international routes. The revised outlook highlights the expansion of the country's aviation sector, supported by growing tourism, business travel, and investment in airport infrastructure.
Domestic Air Travel Leads Passenger Growth
According to the General Directorate of State Airports Authority (DHMI), total passenger numbers are now expected to reach 258.66 million this year, significantly higher than the previous forecast of 249 million.
The updated forecast represents a 4.6% increase from the 247.18 million passengers recorded in 2025, with domestic routes expected to deliver the strongest growth. Passenger numbers on domestic services are projected to rise 6.1% to 107.77 million this year, compared with 101.57 million last year.
International passenger traffic is also expected to continue expanding, increasing from 145.2 million passengers in 2025 to more than 150 million in 2026. DHMI forecasts international passenger numbers will reach 156.85 million in 2027, while domestic traffic is expected to climb further to 114.4 million.
Aircraft Movements and Cargo Continue to Expand
Aircraft traffic, including overflights, is forecast to increase from approximately 2.51 million movements last year to nearly 2.53 million in 2026 before rising to almost 2.7 million in 2027. Domestic flight operations are expected to reach 1.04 million this year, while international flights are forecast at 973,717.
Cargo volumes are also projected to rise, increasing from 5.38 million tonnes in 2025 to 5.43 million tonnes this year, before reaching an estimated 5.64 million tonnes in 2027. Although overflight numbers are expected to decline temporarily this year, aviation authorities anticipate future growth as new airport developments and infrastructure investments come into operation across the country.
Strong Outlook for Turkey's Aviation Sector
The latest projections follow a strong first half of the year, during which more than 1.1 million flights operated through Turkish airspace. Investment in airport infrastructure, combined with Turkey's strategic location between Europe, Asia and the Middle East, is expected to support even more growth.
Turkey's aviation sector has also benefited from changes in regional flight patterns, while Turkish Airlines has continued to expand its operations. Between January and May, the national carrier transported 36.4 million passengers, representing a 7.3% increase compared with the same period last year.
Aleksandra Cihanoğlu 
Senior Advisor
Aleksandra Cihanoğlu is a Senior Advisor at Property Turkey and a regular contributor on topics including Citizenship by Investment, relocation, travel, and lifestyle opportunities in Turkey. Her writing focuses on helping international readers understand the practical realities of living, investing, and building a long-term future in the country.
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