The European Regions Airline Association (ERA) has welcomed Turkish cargo airline, MNG Airlines, as a member.

Based at Istanbul Airport, MNG Airlines was founded in 1996 and joins more than 50 other airlines that are members of ERA, the non-profit trade association.

ERA supports and defends the airline industry in providing safe, efficient, and sustainable air connectivity to all regions of Europe.

MNG Airlines has a global network covering four continents and 41 countries through more than 100 routes, carrying perishables, dangerous goods, and all other types of special cargo, performing scheduled and block space, charter, ACMI, warehouse, and technical and ramp services.

The Turkish airline has received an Operational Excellence Award from Airbus for its A300/A300-600 freighter fleet four times over the last 15 years, and is listed as one of the best A300/A310 operators in the world.

Montserrat Barriga, director general of ERA, said: “MNG Airlines has a respected position in the industry with a growing fleet and I am very pleased to welcome them into ERA membership.

“As a leading independent logistics provider and a global e-commerce enabler, we look forward to the knowledge and expertise they will bring to the association and working with them closely to support their European operations.

“ERA represents a dynamic mix of airline members and I am delighted that MNG has joined the association to expand our ever-growing membership base that includes carriers representing the cargo market.”

Gokay Ozdemir, vice chairman of the board at MNG Airlines, said: “We are delighted to extend our wings and join the esteemed ERA family.

“MNG Airlines is committed to further enhancing the global aviation landscape, and this partnership marks a significant milestone on our journey. We look forward to a fruitful collaboration and endless skies ahead.”