Turkish Airlines, under CEO Ahmet Bolat, is strategically adjusting its growth, reducing its annual expansion rate from 13% to 7-8% over the next decade, targeting 30-35 new cities. The airline is focusing on enhancing frequencies to existing destinations to optimize transit times through its Istanbul hub, designed to handle 200 million passengers annually. 

Asia, particularly China, is a key growth area, with a new agreement increasing weekly flights from 21 to 49 and adding routes to Chengdu, Urumqi, and Xi'an. Bolat emphasizes "cultural tourism," targeting high-spending travelers from 11 markets, including Japan, Singapore, China, Canada, and the U.S., aiming to attract 15 million visitors to boost Turkey's economy. The U.S. remains a strong market, with 1.7 million visitors in 2024 and a goal of 5 million. 

Despite manufacturer delays, Turkish Airlines mitigates disruptions by leasing aircraft, including 14 A321neos for its low-cost carrier A-Jet, and considers regional jets. However, Bolat ruled out introducing a premium economy cabin, unlike competitors. The airline's in-house operations, spanning maintenance, cargo, and catering, support its ambitious yet measured global expansion.