Turkish Airlines posts $197 million Q2 profit despite Middle East conflict

Turkish Airlines reported a net profit of USD 197 million in the second quarter of 2026, overcoming the adverse impact of the ongoing conflict in the Middle East through dynamic capacity management, higher passenger demand and strong cargo performance. The airline’s total revenue rose 20.5 per cent year-on-year to USD 7.2 billion, while cargo revenue surged 58 per cent to nearly USD 1.3 billion as Turkish Cargo capitalised on increased global demand despite disruptions in air freight capacity.

The carrier said its EBITDAR margin reached 12.6 per cent, exceeding its guidance of 8 per cent, while passenger load factor climbed 1.8 percentage points to a record 84 per cent for the second quarter, supported by robust demand from Asia, Europe and Africa. Turkish Airlines expanded its fleet by 14 per cent to 552 aircraft by the end of June and invested USD 3.1 billion during the first six months of 2026. Consolidated total assets stood at USD 51 billion, with total employment across subsidiaries exceeding 101,000.

Chairman of the Board and the Executive Committee, Prof. Murat Şeker, said the airline successfully navigated geopolitical uncertainty and rising fuel prices through its diversified business model, disciplined cost management and agile operations, while remaining focused on safety, customer satisfaction and its Centennial Strategy.

In Kolkata, the airline’s strong financial performance is expected to reinforce confidence among leisure and business travellers from eastern India, where demand for international connectivity to Europe, the Middle East and beyond continues to grow. Industry observers believe Turkish Airlines’ expanding network and operational resilience could further strengthen its appeal in the Kolkata market as outbound travel gains momentum.

By Business Bureau