Istanbul Airport, the gateway of Turkey to the world, has won the right to host the Routes World 2023 event in cooperation with the Ministry of Culture and Tourism of the Republic of Turkey, Turkey Promotion and Development Agency (TGA), and Turkish Airlines. Today, a protocol was signed at an event held at Istanbul Airport regarding its hosting of Routes World 2023. The signing ceremony was attended by TGA General Manager Yalçın Lokmanhekim, İGA CEO Kadri Samsunlu, Turkish Airlines (THY) General Manager Bilal Ekşi, and Routes CEO Steven Small. 'A GREAT CONTRIBUTION TO THE PROMOTION OF TURKEY' In his speech at the ceremony, TGA General Manager Yalçın Lokmanhekim stated, 'The positive impact of such an important organization on the promotion of Istanbul and Turkey will undoubtedly be tremendous. Today, Turkey, through TGA, is actively promoting the country in 140 countries worldwide.' 'AN ORGANIZATION FITTING THE 100TH ANNIVERSARY OF OUR REPUBLIC' İGA CEO Kadri Samsunlu, expressing pride in hosting Routes World 2023, said, 'We are delighted to be hosting Routes World 2023 in celebration of the 100th anniversary of our Republic. As İGA Istanbul Airport, we continue to strengthen our position as a game-changer in the aviation industry. The path we've traveled in a short time and our pioneering work have gained the appreciation of reputable organizations in the sector. In the second half of 2023, we will reach the same passenger numbers as in 2019, and our next goal is to increase passenger numbers to 100 million annually by 2026. Routes World will elevate this recognition and take İGA further in its journey to become a global brand. Thousands of aviation representatives from around the world will gather at Routes World each year, and in 2023, nearly 4,000 global senior aviation industry executives will visit our city. With this significant event, which will showcase Istanbul’s history, culture, hidden gems, and its potential as a focal point for foreign tourists, we are excited to strengthen Istanbul Airport’s position as a global hub and demonstrate our country’s great potential.' 'AN IMPORTANT HOSTING FOR US' As Turkey’s national flag carrier for nearly 90 years, Turkish Airlines is proud to be hosting Routes World 2023, which will take place in the 100th year of our Republic. In line with our vision of building bridges between continents, cultures, and peoples, and with our ever-expanding route network, we continue to strengthen our leading position in global air transportation. The Routes World 2023 event, which will add value to Istanbul’s unique geographical location and potential, will be an important hosting opportunity for us to help make Istanbul and Turkey more prominent in global tourism.