As CEO of Pegasus Airlines, I am immensely proud to reflect on the remarkable progress we have achieved in 2024. This has been a landmark year for us, as we continue to consolidate our position as a leading low-cost carrier (LCC) in the ever-evolving global aviation market. Central to our success are our investments in a modern, young fleet, our unwavering commitment to sustainability, and our focus on technology and innovation.

Operating One of the World’s Youngest Fleets

With a fleet of 112 aircraft, averaging 4.5 years in age as of 30 September 2024, we operate Türkiye’s youngest fleet and one of the youngest globally. A significant portion of our fleet now comprises new-generation Airbus aircraft, which offer enhanced fuel efficiency, sustainability benefits, and improved guest comfort. In 2024, we are set to receive a total of 16 Airbus A321neo aircraft, with a further 52 to be added between 2025 and 2029. This ongoing investment in fleet renewal not only enables us to deliver a superior travel experience but also aligns with our mission of achieving sustainable aviation goals.

New Routes and Destinations

Our home base, Istanbul, with its strategic location at the crossroads of Europe, Asia, and Africa, gives us a distinct advantage for network growth. Each new route strengthens our connectivity, offering our guests more choices and better access to an expanding number of destinations. In 2024, we launched several new routes across Europe, the Middle East, and Central Asia, including destinations in Slovakia, Scotland, Portugal, Spain, Ireland, Egypt, and Kazakhstan. With 143 destinations across 53 countries, we remain steadfast in our commitment to providing affordable, efficient, and accessible air travel to our guests.

Leading the Industry in Sustainability

At Pegasus Airlines, sustainability is not just a buzzword; it is at the heart of everything we do. In the first nine months of 2024, we achieved our lowest-ever emissions intensity, averaging 58.3 gCO2/RPK. In recognition of our efforts, we were honoured with the Global Environmental Sustainability Airline of the Year Award at the CAPA Sustainability Awards 2024 last week, based on an independent assessment of airline emissions data. As we work towards the industry’s Net Zero 2050 goal, we continue investing in next-generation aircraft, seeking to expand our use of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), and keep embracing innovative technologies—each a vital component of our Climate Transition Roadmap.

Pioneering Innovation and Technology

Innovation has always been a driving force at Pegasus Airlines. Since launching our digital transformation programme in 2018, we have continually sought new ways to improve operational efficiency and enhance the guest experience. Our commitment to innovation led to the establishment of our Silicon Valley-based Innovation Lab at the end of 2023. These pioneering initiatives, reflecting our dedication to remaining at the forefront of technological advancements, launched its first project in September, where we introduced AI-generated captain's announcements in multiple languages, allowing us to connect with guests in their native tongues. Additionally, to adapt swiftly to the latest advancements in artificial intelligence, we’ve launched an initiative called FlyGPT in this year. FlyGPT serves as our umbrella program, leading the way for innovative projects and training programs across the company. Through this initiative, we aim to equip our employees and integrate our business processes with AI technologies, fostering alignment with cutting-edge developments in the field.

At Pegasus Airlines, we not only closely monitor technological and innovation trends globally, but we also maintain a strong commitment to leading and fostering a spirit of innovation in these fields. Inspired by emerging trends, our focus is on delivering unique innovations that enhance our guests' travel experience and on introducing technological and digital tools that empower our employees, helping them feel more capable and equipped. We encapsulate all of this in a single motto: ‘One Step Beyond with Technology and Innovation’.

Looking Ahead

As we look to the future, I am filled with optimism and confidence in what lies ahead for the aviation industry and Pegasus Airlines. Our expanding route network, strong commitment to investing in technology and improving customer experience, as well as our industry-leading sustainability initiatives, position us for continued success in the years to come. We look forward to welcoming millions more guests on board as we continue to grow, innovate, and lead the industry towards a more sustainable and connected future