Turkish Airlines Hosts IATA’s World Safety and Operations Conference in Istanbul

Drawing on its experience of connecting diverse markets and managing a global operation, Turkish Airlines provides a valuable perspective on the challenges shaping aviation safety. Technology, data, artificial intelligence and automation are transforming the way we manage risk; the conference will explore how the industry can best support the people whose skills and judgment utilize these advances into safe and resilient operations every day.
Delivering an opening address Turkish Airlines CEO Ahmet Olmuştur also participated in the CEO panel, “Geopolitical Risk and its Impact on People Performance”, sharing his industry insights on the first day of the conference.
Commenting on the occasion, Turkish Airlines CEO Ahmet Olmuştur stated: “Safety is at the heart of everything we do at Turkish Airlines. The value of our investments in technology is realized through the knowledge, experience and sound judgment of our people. We believe a strong safety culture grows through continuous learning, open communication and a shared sense of responsibility. We are pleased to welcome the global aviation community to Istanbul for IATA’s World Safety and Operations Conference. We believe the exchange of experience and the collaboration fostered here will contribute to the safe and resilient growth of our industry.”
IATA’s Senior Vice President, Operations, Safety and Security, Nick Careen said: “People are the foundation of aviation safety. Technology can sharpen our insight and strengthen decision-making, but it is the skills, judgment and leadership of aviation professionals—supported by strong global standards—that turn these advances into safer operations. WSOC is about how we continue to invest in people, use technology with purpose and strengthen the standards that enable aviation to learn, adapt and improve. We thank Turkish Airlines for hosting us in Istanbul and for its strong commitment to safety, industry leadership and collaboration.”
Featuring four conference tracks which are Safety, Cabin Operations, Operations and Crisis Management, the program will examine topics including the impact of geopolitical risk on human performance, human-centered safety practices, the development of future aviation safety talent and human needs in emergency response planning. Workshops and forums will further explore airspace efficiency and resilience, data-driven safety analysis, emergency preparedness and turbulence.
By hosting WSOC 2026, Turkish Airlines supports international cooperation and the exchange of operational experience, reinforcing a shared commitment to putting people at the center of aviation safety.