Turkish Airlines’ "Flying for Good Platform," established by their volunteer cabin crew, is committed to bringing joy to those in need. Recently, the team visited the Ashure Foundation Orphanage in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, spreading happiness among hundreds of children. Highlighting this compassionate effort, Turkish Airlines’ Press Advisor, Yahya Üstün, shared a heartfelt social media message about their impactful journey.

The Largest Aid Movement in Eight Years

Established eight years ago, this platform recently undertook its largest aid mission. Notable volunteers included Turkish Airlines Cabin Chief and founder Sinem Güldal, pilots Ferihan Işık, Nurdan Karataş, Vehbi İlhan Sayhan, alongside cabin crew 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 highlighted the significance of their mission, mentioning their visits to over 300 destinations across 126 countries, some lacking basic amenities like clean water.

Turkish Airlines Spreads Joy

Ferihan Işık revealed mixed emotions of happiness and sadness, witnessing the profound impact of their efforts. She felt honored to be part of this mission. Second pilot Nurdan Karataş stressed, "Nothing in the world is more important than the happiness of children," expressing gratitude to her colleagues for their support.

Impressions from Tanzania

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   Elif Aksoy’s Emotional Experience
   
   Elif Aksoy recounted an emotional moment where orphanage children ran to embrace them, bringing her to tears. She highlighted the severe challenges faced in Africa, emphasizing their duty to meet children’s basic needs. Contributions from ambassadors and Turkish businessmen enabled children to receive quality education. Observing enormous poverty during home visits, she committed to continuing their aid efforts and mentioned delivering 16 suitcases filled with gifts for the children.

   
   
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   Seray Gürdal’s Perspective
   
   Seray Gürdal suggested that everyone should visit such places to appreciate their circumstances better. She highlighted stark differences in living standards and urged more gratitude. Sharing, she noted, increases the abundance of everything.

   
   

Thought-Provoking Messages

Dar es Salaam Ambassador Ali Davutoğlu emphasized the significant role of the Ashure Foundation Orphanage, established by Turkish citizens and currently housing 65 orphans under the honorary presidency of his wife Yeşim Meço Davutoğlu. Yahya Üstün’s social media post captured their mission's essence: "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."

Frequently Asked Questions About Turkish Airlines' Charity Initiative

What is the “Flying for Good Platform”?

The “Flying for Good Platform” is a volunteer-run organization by Turkish Airlines cabin crew. Established eight years ago, it aims to assist those in need and improve their living conditions. Recently, they carried out a significant aid mission at the Ashure Foundation Orphanage in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, bringing smiles to hundreds of children’s faces.

Why did Turkish Airlines volunteers choose Tanzania?

Tanzania was chosen due to its high level of need, particularly at the Ashure Foundation Orphanage in Dar es Salaam. Volunteers aimed to provide help in a region where even clean water is scarce, ensuring children access to education, health, and daily necessities, thereby improving their living standards.

Most Curious About Turkish Airlines' "Flying for Good" Project

What inspired the creation of the "Flying for Good Platform"?

The "Flying for Good Platform" was inspired by a genuine desire among Turkish Airlines' volunteer cabin crew to make a positive impact in the world. Founded eight years ago by dedicated members like Cabin Chief Sinem Güldal, the platform focuses on providing aid to those in need, particularly in underprivileged areas. Their mission aims to spread joy and improve living conditions for the less fortunate, as demonstrated by their recent visit to the Ashure Foundation Orphanage in Tanzania. Their efforts are driven by compassion and a commitment to bringing smiles to children's faces worldwide.

Why did they choose to visit the Ashure Foundation Orphanage in Tanzania?

The Ashure Foundation Orphanage in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, was chosen due to its high level of need. The orphanage, established by Turkish citizens, currently houses 65 orphans and serves as a vital support system for the children. The region faces significant challenges, including a lack of access to clean water and other basic necessities. Turkish Airlines volunteers aimed to address these critical needs, ensuring the children have access to education, health, and daily essentials. Their visit highlights their commitment to making a tangible difference in the lives of these children and improving their future prospects.

How significant was this recent mission for the "Flying for Good Platform"?

The recent mission to the Ashure Foundation Orphanage marks the largest aid endeavor in the platform's eight-year history. With volunteers including Cabin Chief Sinem Güldal, pilots like Ferihan Işık, and numerous cabin crew members, the mission showcased the collective effort of Turkish Airlines' staff to bring hope and joy to the children. By delivering 16 suitcases filled with gifts and addressing various challenges faced by the community, this mission represents a significant milestone for the platform, emphasizing their ongoing dedication to humanitarian causes and their ability to mobilize resources effectively.

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.