Aviation Turkey:As female entrepreneurs in the aviation PR industry, what challenges have you faced, and how have you overcome them?

As female entrepreneurs in the aviation PR industry, we’ve certainly faced our share of challenges, but we've been fortunate to have started our careers at M3 Public Relations, an agency founded by strong women who not only paved the way for us but also created a supportive environment where women help each other thrive. Working alongside influential women in a company with a deep understanding of the aviation sector gave us the confidence to navigate this high-stakes industry and collaborate with major aviation players, helping us establish our place in the field.

The aviation industry, by its very nature, is highly dynamic and susceptible to crises—whether economic downturns, regulatory changes, or operational disruptions. This creates an environment where strategic communication and crisis management are not just important but essential. The pandemic was perhaps the most profound example of this, as aviation became one of the hardest-hit sectors, facing unprecedented restrictions, grounded fleets, and shifting passenger behaviors. During that period, we had to be more agile than ever—navigating uncertainty, providing clear and reassuring messaging, and helping our clients adapt to rapidly changing regulations and public sentiment.

Early in our careers, we sometimes questioned whether we could truly make our mark in such a technical and high-stakes industry. But after 15 years of working with aviation clients, successfully navigating countless crises—both big and small—we not only proved our capabilities but also discovered just how much we love what we do.

Aviation Turkey: Do you think the aviation PR industry is becoming more inclusive for women?

Aviation has long been perceived as a male-dominated industry, and public relations within this sector is no exception. There was a time when being a woman in aviation communications meant having to work twice as hard to prove your expertise. However, just as in many other fields, significant progress has been made over the years. Women are not only entering the industry in greater numbers but also stepping into leadership roles, challenging outdated perceptions, and bringing fresh perspectives to the field. While there is still room for improvement, the shift toward a more inclusive and diverse industry is undeniable, and we are proud to be part of this progress.

Aviation Turkey: What advice would you give to young women aspiring to enter aviation PR?

For young women aspiring to enter aviation PR, our advice would be to stay curious, confident, and adaptable. The aviation industry is dynamic, fast-paced, and constantly evolving, making it an incredibly exciting field to be part of. It’s important to stay connected to the industry’s ever-changing landscape, keeping an eye on emerging trends, regulations, and global developments. Being alert and aware of the latest updates will help you anticipate challenges and respond quickly. Build a solid foundation in communication, crisis management, and industry knowledge, and don’t let the traditionally male-dominated nature of the field discourage you. Your unique perspective, strong relationships, and keen attention to detail are your greatest strengths. Seek out mentors, continue learning, and remember that passion, persistence, and a strong work ethic will guide you through this thrilling industry.

After years of experience working with clients across various industries in many communication agencies, we founded Nova PR as two entrepreneurial women determined to carve our own path in communication. To young women aspiring to enter aviation PR, we say: be bold, take risks, and never doubt your power to shape this industry. Your unique voice and determination are exactly what will make a difference.

Aviation Turkey: How does PR influence brand perception and customer loyalty in aviation?

PR plays a crucial role in shaping brand perception and fostering customer loyalty in the aviation industry. Through strategic communication, PR helps airlines and aviation companies build trust, manage their reputation, and effectively communicate their values, services, and the unique qualities that set the brand apart from its competitors. By handling crises well, providing transparent information, and consistently engaging with customers, PR can enhance an airline's credibility and positive image. This connection, built on trust and open communication, leads to stronger customer loyalty. When customers feel heard and valued, especially during challenging times, they’re more likely to remain loyal and choose the brand again for future travel. In aviation, where competition is fierce and customer experiences matter deeply, PR becomes an essential tool in driving both perception and long-term loyalty.

Aviation Turkey: What are the key elements that make aviation PR different from other industries?

It is truly one-of-a-kind because it thrives in an environment where quick thinking, managing high-pressure situations and staying calm under pressure are key. The industry players are constantly impacted by factors such as fluctuating regulations, unexpected events, and global crises, requiring PR professionals to be incredibly adaptable and proactive. Additionally, air travel carries a deep personal significance for many people, making effective communication about safety, reliability, and customer experience even more crucial. It isn’t just about promoting a service; it’s about fostering trust, ensuring transparency, and connecting with passengers on an emotional level, all while navigating the complexities of the industry’s ever-changing landscape.

In this environment, it’s also essential to be available whenever the client needs you, establish strong relationships with the media, and respond quickly to their inquiries. Building those connections and maintaining a rapid response time are critical for ensuring clear, accurate, and timely communication, which ultimately strengthens the brand's reputation and trust with the public.

Aviation Turkey: Can you share a campaign or PR initiative that you are particularly proud of?

One of the initiatives we are most proud of is a project we worked on with SunExpress. The project involved a painting competition for students with the theme “My Holiday”. The 17 winning children, many of whom came from economically disadvantaged backgrounds, had never seen the sea and had never flown before. They were invited to Antalya to experience the vacation of their dreams. The most rewarding part of this project was witnessing their pure joy and wonder as they explored an aircraft, visited new places, and experienced the sea for the first time. Initiatives like these remind us of the profound impact we can have on others' lives, and being part of this journey has been an incredibly meaningful experience for us.

Aviation Turkey: How would you describe the current landscape of aviation PR in Turkey?

The current landscape is dynamic and rapidly evolving, reflecting the growth and transformation of the aviation industry itself. With an increasing number of both domestic and international airlines operating in the country, the demand for strategic and effective communication has never been higher. There is a growing emphasis on transparency, safety, and customer experience, particularly in an era where the public is more informed and concerned about environmental sustainability and operational reliability. Additionally, digital media and social platforms have become essential tools in shaping brand perception and engaging with a broader audience. As the industry continues to expand, PR professionals are increasingly focusing on building stronger emotional connections with passengers, highlighting not just the service, but the values and stories behind the brands they represent.

Aviation Turkey: What are the biggest challenges in working with Turkish aviation companies compared to global brands?

As professionals with experience working with both global and local brands, we’ve learned that the fast-changing nature of Turkey's environment can pose challenges for foreign brands. Local companies have a better understanding of these dynamics, which allows for quicker adaptation and more tailored strategies. However, working with Turkish brands requires quick thinking and flexibility, as we must stay one step ahead to guide them effectively and adapt to the ever-shifting landscape.

Aviation Turkey: How do Turkish aviation clients approach PR differently from international clients?

Given the rapidly changing political, social, and economic landscape in Turkey, local brands often prioritize quick adaptation to current events and trends, making their PR strategies highly responsive. They are more attuned to the local audience’s immediate concerns, which requires more real-time adjustments and a personalized approach. On the other hand, international clients tend to focus more on global consistency and broader strategies, sometimes requiring more time to adapt to local nuances.

Aviation Turkey: Which brands have you worked with in the aviation sector throughout your career? Do you primarily work with airlines, airports, MRO companies, aviation technology firms, or other industry stakeholders?

We’ve had the privilege of working with a diverse range of prestigious brands during our career. One of our longest-standing partnerships has been with Airbus, the European planemaker that operates across aviation, defense, and space. This long-term collaboration has not only provided us with valuable insights into the complexities of the industry, but also allowed us to develop a deep understanding of the intersections between these dynamic fields. Alongside Airbus, we’ve had the pleasure of working with renowned airlines such as Emirates Airlines, Eurowings and Lufthansa. Our partnership with SunExpress holds a special place, as it continues to thrive, reflecting the strength and longevity of our collaboration. A particularly unique aspect of our experience was working with MEADS air defense system, which has enriched our expertise in the defense sector. With 15 years of experience in this sector, we continue to grow and adapt to the evolving world of aviation and defense, always focused on delivering the best service to our clients.

Aviation Turkey: In your experience, what are the most common misconceptions aviation clients have about PR?

In our experience, one of the most common misconceptions aviation clients have about PR is that it’s simply about media coverage or just issuing press releases. While media exposure is important, effective PR is much more than that—it’s about building long-term relationships, shaping public perception, and strategically managing a brand’s reputation. Many also underestimate the importance of tailored communication strategies that resonate with specific audiences, whether it's passengers, industry stakeholders, or regulators. In the aviation sector, it's crucial to maintain a consistent and authentic narrative, especially given the complexities and ever-evolving nature of the industry.

Aviation Turkey: What are the biggest challenges in working with Turkish aviation media?

Having worked in the aviation industry for many years, we’ve built strong, trust-based relationships with the Turkish aviation media, which makes navigating this fast-paced environment a lot smoother. One of the biggest challenges we face is the need for quick turnarounds, especially when urgent issues arise. We truly value the close connections we've developed over time, and we appreciate that our media partners always reach out to us for accurate information, trusting that we’ll provide them with timely and reliable communication. It’s this mutual trust and collaboration that allows us to deliver the best for our clients.

Aviation Turkey: What trends do you see shaping the future of aviation PR?

The future of aviation PR is being shaped by several key trends. First and foremost, digital transformation and the increasing importance of social media are significantly altering how brands communicate with their audiences. Aviation companies are placing a stronger emphasis on real-time communication and engaging directly with customers through platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn. Additionally, sustainability has become a central focus, as both consumers and stakeholders are increasingly interested in how aviation brands address environmental concerns. Transparency and authenticity are becoming more important than ever, with brands needing to clearly communicate their efforts toward sustainability and social responsibility.

Another trend is the rise of data-driven PR, where the use of analytics and insights helps tailor messaging and measure campaign effectiveness. Personalized content and experiences are also gaining traction, as aviation companies aim to create more meaningful connections with their customers. Finally, crisis management and reputation recovery are key areas of focus, especially as airlines and aviation companies navigate unexpected disruptions or challenges. Overall, aviation PR is evolving to be more dynamic, customer-centric, and responsive to both industry changes and public expectations.

Aviation Turkey: What’s next for Nova PR? Any upcoming projects or goals?

At Nova PR, while aviation continues to be at the heart of our expertise, we are proud to extend our services to clients across a wide range of industries. We consider ourselves an integral part of our clients' teams, working alongside them with unwavering commitment and dedication. Our focus is always on representing them with the highest level of care and integrity, ensuring that we never compromise on the quality of service we provide. Looking ahead, we remain committed to delivering innovative and impactful communication strategies that foster long-term growth and success for our clients, no matter their field