Turkish Airlines executive sets sights high for 2016

Turkish Airlines (THY) Chairman İlker Aycı said that they would continue to grow in 2016, as 2015 was a profitable year, and that they are expecting this year to be profitable as well. "In this respect, we are trying to do our business in the best manner we can without high expectations," Aycı said.

Speaking to Anadolu Agency (AA) about expectations and estimates for 2016 as well as the sector, Aycı said 2015 was a tough year for all sectors. Yet, even though 2016 had a strong start, expectations should not be raised due to recent developments. Furthermore, this year is so far no different than 2015, according to Aycı. While there are great difficulties, there were also improvements. "We have a plan B for all the difficulties we may encounter. We plan to overcome any problems that arise together with our colleagues, partners, our board of directors and the General Directorate in 2016, just like we did in 2015," Aycı said.

Meanwhile, the profits of Europe's leading carrier exceeded $1 billion for the first time in 2015, and net profit was declared at $1.069 billion. Operating profits were $895 million. When assessed in Turkish lira, net profits increased more than 65 percent compared to 2014, to reach TL 2.9 billion ($1 billion). Operating profits rose more than 72 percent to reach TL 2.5 billion. Sales revenue in 2015 increased 19 percent to TL 28.8 billion.