Particle.news
Download on the App Store

Turkish Airlines Unveils 500th Aircraft, Kicking Off 'Second 500' Expansion

The A350-900 carries a mosaic livery honoring 100,000 employees.

Overview

  • The milestone jet, an Airbus A350-900 registered TC-LHH and named “TK Family,” was presented at Istanbul Airport.
  • The aircraft performed a ceremonial TK500 flight that traced the number 500 in the sky.
  • Turkish Airlines reaffirmed its goal to build a 1,000-aircraft fleet by 2036 as it enters its self-described “Second 500” era.
  • Spotter data indicates the A350 entered commercial service on January 6, 2026, preceding the February unveiling.
  • The carrier highlighted growth to 356 destinations across six continents and referenced prior milestones of 100th (2006), 200th (2012), 300th (2016), and 400th (2023) aircraft.