Türkiye’s richest getting richer: Private jet ownership increases by 45% in 2024

After the coronavirus pandemic, there has been a significant rise in private flights, with the number of Türkiye’s richest people owning private jets in Türkiye reaching record levels.

In 2024, the number of private jets increased by 43.6%, reaching 158. The most expensive jet is valued at $80 million, while some business figures stand out with their private fleets. With this increase, Türkiye ranked 13th globally.

Türkiye’s richest: Who owns how many jets?

According to a special report by Nuray Tarhan in Forbes, the number of businesspeople owning private jets has increase exponentially.

Leading the list is Mehmet Nazif Gunal, who owns an $80 million Global 8000 jet. Mehmet Ali Aydinlar follows with a $79 million Gulfstream G700, while Cengiz Holding stands out with a $65 million Gulfstream G650.

Some prominent figures, such as Omer Koc, Fuat Tosyali, and Mehmet Cengiz, own multiple jets.

• Cemal Kalyoncu owns two aircraft: a $43 million Bombardier Global 5500 and a $9.95 million Bombardier Challenger 605.
• Mehmet Cengiz also has two planes: a $65 million General Dynamics Gulfstream G650 and a $19.5 million Cessna Citation Latitude.
• Omer Koc is among those with two jets, including a $62 million Dassault Systems Falcon 8X and a $57 million Dassault Systems Falcon 6X.
• Fuat Tosyali owns a $53 million Dassault Systems Falcon 7X and a $16 million Falcon 2000S from the same manufacturer.

The cost of luxury: $100,000

Owning a private jet is said to be cost-effective for those who fly over 300 hours annually.

However, the monthly maintenance and operational expenses range from $50,000 to $100,000. Businesspeople also generate additional income by renting out their jets when not in use.

Mehmet Ali Aydinlar, one of Türkiye’s richest, acquires Gulfstream G700

In a significant move that underscores the growing luxury aviation market in Türkiye, Acibadem Healthcare Group Chairman Mehmet Ali Aydinlar had purchased the country’s most technologically advanced private jet, the Gulfstream G700.

The aircraft, valued at $79 million, joined Aydinlar’s fleet alongside his existing Gulfstream G650, which he acquired during the pandemic period.

The G700 stands out as Türkiye’s most prestigious business aircraft, featuring unprecedented luxury amenities and advanced technological capabilities.

The jet accommodates up to 19 passengers and boasts 20 panoramic windows, setting new standards for private aviation comfort. Its cabin spans 17.35 meters in length and provides sleeping arrangements for 13 passengers.

Powered by twin Rolls-Royce Pearl 700 engines, the aircraft achieves a maximum speed of 956 kilometers per hour and boasts an impressive range of 13,890 kilometers (8630.8 miles).