Gokhan Ergocun
06 October 2026•Update: 06 October 2026
The International Air Transport Association global safety director said Türkiye is an aviation powerhouse and the seventh largest market in the world during a conference in Istanbul.
Mark Searle addressed the World Safety and Operations Conference 2026 on Tuesday, stating that international passenger traffic in the country grew by nearly 70% over the past decade.
This growth made Türkiye the seventh largest market in the world, describing Istanbul as one of the great global hubs of the world.
He noted that the city is historically important as a strategic bridge between Europe and Asia.
Istanbul is a melting pot of civilizations where each civilization left its mark.
Sharing safety statistics, the official said the industry recorded one fatal accident in every 3.5 million flights a decade ago.
He added that this figure improved to one fatal accident in 5.6 million flights in 2025.
The director emphasized that the industry still saw 394 on-board fatalities in 2025, urging the sector to strive with continued laser focus for the ultimate goal of no fatalities.
The official described people, standards and technology as integral parts of the same safety system.
He also shared data on global navigation satellite system interference.
Reported jamming events increased by 67% in 2025 compared to 2023.
Reported GPS spoofing incidents rose by 193% during the same period.
He reminded that a robust and proven contingency plan must always support technology.
