Turkish Airlines to host IATA’s joint World Passenger and World Financial Symposium on Nov 5–6
Turkish Airlines is set to host the International Air Transport Association’s (IATA) joint World Passenger Symposium and World Financial Symposium in Istanbul on November 5–6, 2025.
The two-day event will bring together leaders in aviation, finance, retailing, payments and digital identity to examine how emerging technologies and business models will reshape passenger travel and airline financial strategies.
As the first edition combining both IATA events, the symposium will feature keynote addresses and panel discussions by Turkish Airlines executives alongside global industry experts. Attendees will consider next-generation retailing concepts, disruptive payment solutions and secure digital-identity frameworks designed to streamline operations and enhance the customer experience.
Assoc Prof Murat Şeker, Turkish Airlines’ Chief Financial Officer and board member, said, "Turkish Airlines is glad to host the joint IATA WFS/WPS in Istanbul, our home city. As the airline that connects more countries than any other, we are committed to leading the transformation of passenger travel and staying at the forefront of the industry in innovation in finance, digital identity and retailing, which are central to offering smarter, simpler and more comfortable journeys worldwide."
Sandrine Le Borgne, IATA Senior Vice President, Corporate Services and CFO, said, "Aviation is on the cusp of a major transformation. New retailing models, disruptive payment technologies and digital identity are reshaping how airlines serve customers and run their businesses. CFOs will be at the centre of this shift, ensuring that financial strategies, systems and investments align with the industry’s future. IATA WFS/WPS is a unique opportunity to take stock of these changes, learn from those at the cutting edge of innovation and align strategies."
Istanbul provides a symbolic backdrop for the event, bridging Europe and Asia and highlighting Türkiye’s role as a global connector. The programme will showcase Turkish Airlines’ digital-transformation initiatives while exploring how carriers can leverage technology to boost efficiency, reduce complexity and improve passenger satisfaction.
Founded in 1933 with just five aircraft, Turkish Airlines has grown into a Star Alliance member operating 505 passenger and cargo jets. The airline now flies to 355 destinations across 131 countries, including 302 international and 53 domestic routes, reinforcing its position as one of the world’s most extensive networks.
IATA represents nearly 290 airlines worldwide, accounting for more than 80 per cent of global air traffic. Through events such as WPS and WFS, the association fosters collaboration on safety, security, sustainability and innovation, helping airlines adapt to evolving customer expectations and economic challenges.
