FRANKFURT AM MAIN, GERMANY – The Board of Airline Representatives in Germany (BARIG) has welcomed Türkiye-based Freebird Airlines as its newest member, further strengthening the association’s representation of airlines operating within the German aviation market.

Airline serves 16 German airports

Celebrating its 25th anniversary in 2026, Freebird Airlines operates alongside its Malta-registered sister company, Freebird Airlines Europe, serving more than 120 destinations. The group offers flights from 16 airports across Germany to a range of leisure destinations, including Antalya, Crete and Fuerteventura. Its fleet consists of 14 Airbus A320 aircraft.

Michael Hoppe, Chairman and Executive Director of BARIG, said the association was pleased to welcome another airline with a strong commitment to the German leisure travel market. He noted that while Germany remains a robust aviation market, airlines continue to face challenges associated with high state-imposed operating costs, making industry collaboration increasingly important.

Focus on industry cooperation

Freebird Airlines Managing Director Selim Tükenmez highlighted Germany’s longstanding importance as a source market for the carrier. He noted that the airline has maintained a presence in the country since its establishment and has developed extensive experience in both charter and scheduled operations.

According to Tükenmez, participation in BARIG will provide valuable opportunities to engage with industry peers and contribute to discussions on current aviation challenges and developments.

Part of a broader aviation group

Freebird Airlines forms part of Gözen Holding, a group that has been active in aviation for more than four decades. The organisation is involved in several sectors of the industry, including airline representation, security services, fuel supply, supervision, brokerage and flight training.

The airline has achieved several industry milestones during its 25-year history. In 2002, it became the first airline in Türkiye to receive ISO 9001:2000 certification from TÜV Rheinland, while in 2006 it became the country’s first charter airline to obtain International Air Transport Association (IATA) IOSA registration.

BARIG represents more than 100 airlines

BARIG represents the interests of more than 100 national and international airlines operating in the scheduled, charter, low-cost and air cargo sectors. Founded in 1951, the association works with government, regulators and industry stakeholders to improve operating conditions for aviation in Germany.