KUALA LUMPUR: Turkish Airlines is set to expand its operations in Malaysia, with increased frequency between Kuala Lumpur to Istanbul to 14 flights a week by middle of August this year.

Currently, flights between the capital city and Istanbul are at 10 flights each week.

Turkish Airlines chairperson, Professor Ahmet Bolat, said the airline aims to connect Malaysians to more innovative travel experiences while promoting Türkiye’s culture and hospitality.

“As our country’s flag carrier, Turkish Airlines is committed to delivering exceptional customer service and providing its passengers with a comfortable and enjoyable travel experience.

'We are proud of our extensive network of destinations, and we look forward to further serving the Malaysian market," said Bolat at an event in Kuala Lumpur on Wednesday.

He added that the airline's fleet has grown three times above the global average rate in 2022, thanks to the location of Türkiye and ever-growing investments in infrastructure.

"We have also added the 400th aircraft to our fleet and are planning to add the 500th one by 2025," added Bolat.

Citing the the United Nations World Tourism Organisation's anticipation of international arrivals to return to 80 to 95 percent of pre-pandemic levels, Bolat said the upward projection came in light of “notable increases in international tourists” in every global region, especially in the Asia-Pacific and Middle Eastern regions.

“All industry projections point to a shift in the axis of aviation towards the East in the near future. As one of the leading countries in Southeast Asia, I believe Malaysia will play a key role in our future,” he said.

Turkish Airlines netted $2.7 billion net profit in 2022, reflecting the airline's resilience on the back of a strong recovery in demand.