Selahattin Bilgen, CEO of IGA Istanbul Airport, has been elected to the Governing Board of Airports Council International (ACI) World, one of the most significant global organizations in the aviation industry.

IGA Istanbul Airport, one of the world’s leading global transfer hubs with its strategic location, modern infrastructure, and commitment to passenger experience, continues to achieve international success. During the General Assembly of Airports Council International (ACI) World, a leading organization representing airports on a global scale, IGA Istanbul Airport CEO Selahattin Bilgen was elected to the Governing Board.

For the next three years, Selahattin Bilgen will represent Türkiye on the ACI World Governing Board, joining 28 members involved in the organization's decision-making process. He will be among the seven members elected to represent the European region, working alongside the CEOs of major European airports such as Milan, Brussels, and Munich. Following his role as a Board Member of ACI Europe since January 2024, Bilgen’s appointment to ACI World’s board further strengthens the significance of IGA Istanbul Airport and Turkish aviation on the global stage. This decision highlights Türkiye’s growing influence in global aviation and reinforces IGA Istanbul Airport’s status as a reference point in the international arena.

ACI World is one of the most prestigious organizations in the aviation sector, dedicated to policy-making, education, and research & development for the advancement of the industry. Operating in 169 countries and representing 2,110 airports, ACI World’s Governing Board is elected from among its 814 members. These board members not only represent their countries but also play a key role in the implementation of critical decisions within the aviation sector.

Expressing his pride in representing the Turkish aviation sector at ACI World after serving for a year on the ACI Europe Board, Selahattin Bilgen, CEO of IGA Istanbul Airport, stated: "I am deeply honored to be elected to this important position. At IGA Istanbul Airport, we remain committed to contributing to the growth and development of the global aviation industry. These developments, which enhance Türkiye’s international aviation prestige, provide significant benefits both to the industry and the national economy. Through my role on the ACI World Governing Board, we will actively participate in strategic decision-making processes that shape the future of our sector, ensuring Türkiye’s strong representation on the global aviation arena."

Bilgen also highlighted that IGA Istanbul Airport hosted the 34th Annual Congress of the Airports Council International Europe from July 1-4, 2024, one of ACI’s most prestigious events. He stated:

"This event, hosted by IGA Istanbul Airport, showcased Türkiye’s increasing role in international aviation. As one of the most significant gatherings of the European aviation sector, the Congress brought together leading CEOs, senior executives, and over 500 airport professionals. Additionally, we are preparing to host the ACI World Customer Experience Summit in 2026. Hosting such prestigious events not only reinforces Istanbul’s position as a central hub in aviation but also further strengthens IGA’s global influence. Through this new role on the ACI World Governing Board, we aim to be at the forefront of shaping key industry decisions, further enhancing our impact on the future of aviation."