How AJet's 80% On-Time Rate and Boeing MAX Fleet Drove 2025 Growth

Low-cost carrier AJet, a subsidiary of Turkish Airlines, concluded 2025 with significant operational and fleet milestones. The airline, which launched on March 31, 2024, quickly established itself in the competitive LCC market. Key to its success was a focus on efficiency, fleet modernization, and network expansion.

Operational Excellence and Safety Certification

AJet achieved a notable on-time departure rate of 80% in 2025. This performance exceeded the Eurocontrol regional average, which saw network departure punctuality in the high 60s to low 70s during the latter half of the year. Maintaining high punctuality is a critical metric for low-cost operations.

Safety was also a core focus for the young carrier. AJet successfully completed the IATA Operational Safety Audit (IOSA) before its second anniversary. This certification is a globally recognized benchmark for operational management and control systems. Securing the IOSA registration officially started the process toward full membership in the International Air Transport Association (IATA).

In addition, AJet received the APEX “Four Star Low-Cost Airline” award for the second consecutive year. The airline also earned several ISO certifications. These validated its practices in customer satisfaction, environmental management, and occupational health and safety.

Fleet Modernization and Passenger Growth

By the end of 2025, AJet operated a fleet of approximately 90 airplanes. The airline made strategic moves to strengthen and modernize its fleet. It acquired 10 new Boeing 737-8 MAX aircraft. These new-generation planes support the carrier's goal for environment-friendly and sustainable growth.

• The new Boeing 737-8 MAX aircraft entered service in August 2025.
• They are equipped with locally-made “Miligram” seats. These seats are produced by THY subsidiary TCI.
• The lightweight, EASA-certified seats offer more legroom and improve fuel efficiency.

In terms of passenger volume, AJet served 23 million passengers in 2025. This total included 8 million on international routes and 15 million on domestic routes. The carrier also began final preparations to offer uninterrupted high-speed internet access onboard via Türksat satellites.

Network Expansion and Future Strategy

Expansion abroad remains a strategic priority for the low-cost carrier. AJet launched 20 new routes in 2025 across Europe, the Middle East, Turkic countries, and North Africa. The airline now operates flights to 100 destinations. This network includes 59 routes in 34 countries and 41 routes in Türkiye.

The airline's main hubs are Istanbul's Sabiha Gökçen Airport and Ankara's Esenboğa Airport. Looking ahead, AJet plans to establish its third hub in the summer of 2026. This new base will be at Milas-Bodrum Airport in the southwest.

Key 2026 Targets:

• Increase the fleet size to 107 aircraft.
• Ensure 76% of the fleet consists of next-generation planes.
• Launch 23 new international routes.
• Target 28 million passengers carried.
• Serve 108 destinations in 37 countries.

This aggressive growth strategy aims to position AJet as a major player in the global low-cost segment. The long-term goal is to serve 199 destinations in 56 countries by 2033. This expansion is vital for Türkiye's growing tourism and commercial aviation news sector, offering new travel opportunities for passengers via affordable fares and modern aircraft. For more commercial aviation news, visit flying.flights.