Turkish Cargo, the freight division of Turkish Airlines, has unveiled TK AERO, a dedicated logistics solution tailored for the aviation industry’s most time-critical and technically demanding cargo. Developed with a strong engineering backbone, TK AERO reflects the airline’s ambition to lead the high-stakes world of aircraft parts and engine logistics, with speed, reliability, and technical precision at the forefront.
Addressing the Critical Needs of Aviation Logistics
From AOG (Aircraft on Ground) emergencies to the global movement of sensitive engines and avionics, the transportation of aircraft parts has always been a race against time, with high stakes for airlines, lessors, and MRO (Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul) providers. Recognizing this, Turkish Cargo developed TK AERO as a purpose-built product line to address the sector’s most urgent and complex requirements.
“Time and technical accuracy are everything in this industry,” said Mr. Ali Türk, Chief Cargo Officer at Turkish Airlines. “In developing TK AERO, we placed engineering at the center of our planning. Our aim was not simply to move cargo fast, but to provide end-to-end operational continuity and security. This product allows us to deliver with confidence in even the most sensitive scenarios.”
Two-Tiered Product Suite: SPARE and ADVANCED
TK AERO comprises two distinct service levels, each designed for specific aviation cargo needs.
TK AERO SPARE is designed for urgent and flexible transport of general aircraft parts, from landing gear and avionics to fuselage components. There are no limitations on weight or size. These shipments are given absolute priority in the booking and handling process, with special care during acceptance, transit, and delivery.
TK AERO ADVANCED, on the other hand, focuses on the movement of large, heavy, and delicate aircraft engines and helicopter components. These high-value assets require more than just space; they require customized operational strategies, technical oversight, and engineering-led handling protocols. This is where Turkish Cargo’s innovation is most apparent.
Specialized Technical Planning
For each TK AERO ADVANCED movement, a technical evaluation is conducted based on the type of component and aircraft. Turkish Cargo’s engineering team then prepares a bespoke loading plan, ensuring that sensitive parts, particularly jet engines, are transported in line with manufacturer specifications and industry best practices.
Each engine type has an associated Standard Operating Procedure (SOP), ensuring consistency and regulatory compliance. These SOPs detail loading configurations, support equipment, safety checks, and handling tolerances.
Aircraft Loadmaster Team on Site
All TK AERO ADVANCED shipments are supervised on the ground by Turkish Cargo’s certified Aircraft Loadmaster team, logistics professionals with specific expertise in engine loading. From loading and fastening to unloading at the final destination, this team ensures that every step is executed precisely, using approved checklists, rigging gear, and containerization.
Throughout the operation, TK AERO TEAM coordinates live with airside operations, customs, and cargo terminal staff. All activity is digitally monitored 24/7, with instant updates shared across stakeholders to ensure synchronization, critical in AOG scenarios or complex cross-border transits.
Integrated Digital Infrastructure
One of the defining features of TK AERO is its use of integrated digital tools. Requests for engine shipments can be submitted directly through the TKGO platform, streamlining communications between shippers, Turkish Cargo, and partners.
The system supports pre-booking, document control, shipment visibility, and customer feedback, reducing lead times and improving information transparency. According to Turkish Cargo, this digital-first approach enables faster decision-making, essential when coordinating global logistics under pressure.
“In aviation, it’s not just about being fast, but about being precise and connected,” added Mr. Türk. “Our TKGO platform allows all parties to stay informed and aligned, even in high-pressure situations.”
AOG Response Powered by TK URGENT
To further reinforce its responsiveness, Turkish Cargo has linked TK AERO to its TK URGENT product, a premium service for time-critical cargo. This is particularly relevant for AOG shipments, where every minute of downtime can mean cancelled flights, lost revenue, and operational bottlenecks.
In AOG cases, TK AERO activates immediate capacity allocation, guaranteed uplift, and priority processing at Turkish Cargo’s SMARTIST hub at Istanbul Airport. The cargo is routed to the first available flight with the shortest transit time, and real-time communication with the TK AERO TEAM ensures that no step is missed.
Strategic Value for Global Customers
By combining engineering precision with premium logistics services, TK AERO offers a compelling proposition to aircraft manufacturers, MRO providers, leasing companies, and airlines around the world. With aviation fleets expanding in Asia, the Middle East, and Africa, and supply chains becoming more distributed, the need for agile and capable logistics providers is at an all-time high.
Turkish Cargo is positioning TK AERO as part of its long-term strategy to lead in specialized cargo segments, not only in aviation logistics but also in pharmaceuticals, perishable goods, and high-tech sectors.
Future Vision: Raising the Bar in Aviation Logistics
TK AERO is more than just a new product; it reflects Turkish Cargo’s vision to transform from a fast-growing cargo airline into a solution-driven logistics partner for global industries. As the airline continues to invest in digital systems, personnel training, and infrastructure such as the SMARTIST facility, services like TK AERO are expected to set new benchmarks in how aviation cargo is handled.
“Our vision is clear,” said Mr. Türk. “We don’t just transport goods; we enable industries to function. With TK AERO, we are bringing peace of mind to aviation stakeholders who rely on precision, continuity, and speed. We are proud to be their logistics partner of choice.”
อัพเดตข่าวสารและบทความที่น่าสนใจในอุตสาหกรรมโลจิสติกส์ก่อนใคร ผ่าน Line Official Account @Airfreight Logistics เพียงเพิ่มเราเป็นเพื่อน @Airfreight Logistics หรือคลิกที่นี่
