Turkish Airlines has officially opened applications for the 2026 edition of its Terminal Startup Accelerator Program, inviting startups developing innovative solutions for aviation operations to apply by June 28, 2026.
As the airline flying to more countries than any other carrier globally, Turkish Airlines continues to expand its engagement with the startup ecosystem through a corporate innovation program designed to connect high-potential technology ventures with real operational challenges across aviation, airport, and air cargo operations.
Beyond Visibility: Real Enterprise Collaboration Opportunities
The Terminal Startup Accelerator Program is structured not only as a showcase platform for startups, but as a direct collaboration channel between entrepreneurs and one of the world’s largest aviation groups.
Selected startups will gain access to opportunities including:
- Developing Proof of Concept (PoC) and pilot projects with Turkish Airlines business units
- Potential investment opportunities
- Mentorship from Turkish Airlines executives and subsidiaries
- Guidance from corporate innovation professionals and experienced founders
- Access to Turkish Airlines’ broader ecosystem and partner organizations
For Turkish Airlines, the program also serves as a strategic innovation pipeline, helping the carrier identify scalable technology partners while contributing to the growth of Türkiye’s startup ecosystem.
Focus Areas: Aviation, Airport Operations, and Air Cargo
The 2026 program focuses on three major operational verticals: apron operations, airport operations, and air cargo logistics.
Startups developing solutions in the following areas are encouraged to apply:
Robotics & Mobility Technologies
- Autonomous vehicles and robotic systems for ground operations
- Robotics and automation for logistics workflows
Digitalization of Baggage Operations
- Baggage traceability solutions
- Cabin baggage analysis powered by computer vision
Apron Efficiency & Safety
- ULD tracking and management systems
- Ground vehicle collision risk reduction technologies
- Aircraft damage warning systems
- Passenger bridge energy management solutions
Passenger Experience & Airport Operations
- IRROPS passenger management systems
- Zone boarding technologies
- Check-in congestion management
- Multilingual translation systems
Cargo Operations Optimization
- Automated cargo measurement, weighing, and data entry
- Workforce optimization in warehouse operations
- Cargo pallet disruption analysis and classification
- Operational forecasting and decision-support tools
- Forklift tracking systems
- Door-to-door delivery solutions
- Ergonomic technologies reducing physical workload in cargo operations
Who Can Apply?
The program is open to startups that already have developed products or services capable of creating direct impact in at least one of the program’s focus areas. Applicants are expected to have reached a level of maturity suitable for running pilot projects with enterprise partners.
Both growth-stage startups and ventures seeking market validation are eligible to apply.
Application Timeline
Applications opened on May 11, 2026 and will remain open until June 28, 2026.
Following the application phase, shortlisted startups will be invited to the jury evaluation event, “Air Pitch Day,” where they will present their solutions. Selected startups will then participate in PoC and pilot project processes before showcasing their progress during the program’s Demo Day event.
Apply: https://terminal.turkishairlines.com/terminal-girisim-hizlandirma-programi-2026/
Source: egirisim.com
