Turkish low-cost carrier Pegasus Airlines is to take on 1,400 new staff this year as capacity grows by as much as 13% on the back of a recovery in tourism to the country.
Ten new aircraft will join the fleet in 2018 as the airline exercised a 25-aircraft option in favour of the A321neos as part of a 100-strong order placed with the European manufacturer in 2012.
The airline’s current fleet of 75 aircraft carried almost 28 million passengers last year, with 21.7% growth on international routes.
Turnover grew by 44% to 5.3 billion Turkish lira, delivering a net profit for 2017 of 501 million Turkish lira.
Capacity is set to rise by between 11% and 13% this year, according to CEO Mehmet Nane.
“Since last year, we have been saying that we predict real growth will begin in 2018,” Nane said.
“The positive trends in the sector and our own company confirm our beliefs. The figures show that we are heading in the right direction.
“The civil aviation sector is in a much better position generally and has managed to shake off the negative impact of the past few years.
“We have complete confidence in Turkey’s economy, civil aviation and tourism potential.
“We view the development of the aviation sector in general and creating employment in Turkey as being among our key goals and responsibilities, and just as important as managing and developing the company to the best of our abilities.
“Pegasus is planning to recruit approximately 1,400 personnel during 2018.”
Stating that technology was among the key investment areas for the carrier this year, Nane added:
“By closely following technological developments and using technology to create added value projects for our guests, we are better prepared for the future. We aim to be ranked among the top ten airlines globally with regard to technology use.”