Turkish Airlines’ "Flying for Good Platform," founded by its volunteer cabin crew, is dedicated to spreading joy to those in need. Recently, the team visited the Ashure Foundation Orphanage in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, sharing happiness with hundreds of children. This compassionate effort was highlighted by Turkish Airlines’ Press Advisor, Yahya Üstün, who shared a heartfelt message on social media about their impactful journey.

The Largest Aid Movement in Eight Years

Established eight years ago, this platform’s recent mission marks its largest aid endeavor. Among the volunteers were Turkish Airlines Cabin Chief and platform founder Sinem Güldal, pilots Ferihan Işık, Nurdan Karataş, Vehbi İlhan Sayhan, and cabin crew members Elif Aksoy, Eren Akbaki, Ülgen Tunç, Seray Gürdal, Sabit Coşkun, Nihan Ceyda Ünlü, Doğan Kuyucu, Setenay Er, and Nur Hilal Bilgin. Captain pilot Ferihan Işık emphasized the significance of their mission, noting that they have visited over 300 destinations across 126 countries, some of which lack access to basic necessities like clean water.

Turkish Airlines Spreads Joy

Ferihan Işık expressed emotions of both happiness and sadness, witnessing how their organization touched people’s hearts. She felt honored to be a part of this mission. Second pilot Nurdan Karataş emphasized, "Nothing in the world is more important than the happiness of children," thanking her colleagues for their contributions.

Impressions from Tanzania

Elif Aksoy’s Emotional Experience

Elif Aksoy recounted an emotional experience where children at the orphanage ran to hug them, bringing her to tears. She emphasized the severe challenges faced in Africa, describing their duty to address children’s basic needs. Thanks to contributions from ambassadors and Turkish businessmen, children were receiving quality education. She detailed the enormous poverty they observed during home visits and committed to continuing their aid efforts further. In their visit, they delivered 16 suitcases filled with gifts for the children. 

Seray Gürdal’s Perspective

Seray Gürdal suggested everyone should visit such places to appreciatetheir circumstances better. She pointed out the vast differences in living standards, urging more gratitude. Sharing, she noted, increases the abundance of everything.

Thought-Provoking Messages

Dar es Salaam Ambassador Ali Davutoğlu noted the significant role of the Ashure Foundation Orphanage, established by Turkish citizens and now housing 65 orphans under the honorary presidency of his wife Yeşim Meço Davutoğlu. Yahya Üstün’s social media post eloquently captured the essence of their mission: "About 8,000 kilometers away; if an orphaned child you meet for the first time hugs you sincerely and their eyes sparkle, it means you have touched their heart."

Most Frequently Asked Questions About Turkish Airlines' Charity Initiative

What is the "Flying for Good Platform"?

The "Flying for Good Platform" is an initiative created by Turkish Airlines' volunteer cabin crew. Designed to assist those in need, the platform has been operational for eight years and focuses on improving living standards in impoverished regions. Their recent mission involved visiting the Ashure Foundation Orphanage in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, where they brought joy to hundreds of children by providing essential goods and showing heartfelt compassion. The platform often organizes similar aid movements, underscoring the airline’s commitment to social responsibility and making a positive difference in communities around the world.

Why did Turkish Airlines choose to provide aid in Tanzania?

Turkish Airlines selected Tanzania as a focus for their aid efforts due to the country's significant needs, particularly at the Ashure Foundation Orphanage in Dar es Salaam. Volunteers aimed to address crucial issues such as the lack of access to clean water and insufficient educational resources. By choosing this region, Turkish Airlines hoped to improve the living conditions of some of the most vulnerable children, ensuring they receive education, healthcare, and other essentials. This mission reflects the airline's dedication to delivering aid where it is most needed, making a lasting impact on the community.

Who is Yahya Üstün?

Born in Istanbul in 1985, Yahya Üstün completed his higher education in 2011 at Maltepe University, Faculty of Communication, Department of Visual Communication Design. Alongside his university education, Üstün held various positions in the media sector. In 2012, he was appointed as ATV's London Representative.

After serving in London for a year, Üstün pursued studies in International Media and Communication in London between 2014 and 2016. Üstün, who has held significant roles in the Turkish media sector, served as the General Broadcasting Manager of ATV Europe. As of January 2016, he has been serving as the Press Advisor for Turkish Airlines. Üstün has held board membership positions in numerous sports clubs and federations. Yahya Üstün is proficient in English and has a basic knowledge of Arabic.