Turkish Airlines' sales revenue increased by 26 percent to 14,9 billion TL, operating profit increased by 192 percent to 1.048 million and net profit increased from 19 million TL in 2011 TL to 1.13 billion TL in 2012. During 2012 Turkish Airlines carried 39 million passengers, which indicates a 20 percent increase compared to 2011. With this performance, Turkish Airlines ranked number 3 in passengers carried among AEA members. In 2012, compared to the previous year, available seat kilometer (ASK) and revenue per kilometer (RPK) increased by 18 percent and 26 percent, respectively. Despite the increase in ASK, passenger load factor went up by 4.8 points to 77.4 percent. Turkish Airlines, averaging 6,6 fleet age, has one of the youngest and most dynamic fleet in the world. In 2012, its' fleet totaled 202, comprising 159 narrow body, 36 wide body and 7 cargo aircraft. In 2012, 32 new routes were opened, bringing the total international lines to 181 in 96 countries. Including domestic destinations, total number of destinations stood at 217. Thus, Turkish Airlines was named the airline that flies to more countries than any other airline. Besides, Turkish Airlines scored a resounding success at the 2012 Skytrax World Airline Awards, being voted as the "Best Airline in Europe", the second year running. Positive 2012 financial results, despite the 18 percent growth, should be accepted as an indicator of positive financial results for 2013. By posting great achievements in the past 10 years, Turkish Airlines became the shining star of the global airline sector. Going forward, Turkish Airlines set ambitious goals for the upcoming 10 years and accelerated its' operations to reach the aforementioned goals. — SG
