A partnership has been formed between Airbus and iGA Istanbul Airport in aviation training. A strategic cooperation agreement was signed by the CEO of Airbus, Adam McGonigal, and the CEO of Istanbul Airport, Selahattin Bilgen. This makes the airport Airbus’s first direct training partner.
Combining Technical Skills and Practical Experience
This partnership merges the technical expertise that Airbus can provide as a pioneer of the aviation industry, with the innovative and developmental training programs provided by the airport’s training centre, iGA Academy. With the help of Airbus’s in-depth theoretical expertise, Istanbul Airport will be delivering new and more well-rounded training solutions that combine the practical learning ecosystem and aviation knowledge in an operationally busy environment.
“Although we’re a global hub, we’ve never really defined ourselves as only ‘transportation infrastructure.’ Our ambition is to be a center that teaches, evolves and contributes directly to the advancement of the aviation sector. iGA Academy is key to this vision and our agreement with Airbus will create a unique ecosystem where practical theory meets operational reality. We’re committed to upskilling our teams so that the future of our industry will be shaped not just by infrastructure, but by stronger human talents,” Bilgen says.
The training academy has been able to maintain consistently high satisfaction rate of 95% among participants partaking in training. This is consistent with the recognition iGA has received on an international level. In September 2025, iGA was the first to receive a “Level 5” certification in the ACI Airport Customer Experience Accreditation. At the same time, iGA Academy’s sustainable training solutions received a special award. Furthermore, Istanbul Airport has been acknowledged as an “Accredited Training Partner” by ACI World.
Partnership in Empowerment and Innovation
Both iGA Academy and Airbus are determined to foster and reinforce the importance of collectivity and collaboration that pave the way for shared development and empowerment, strengthening the ties in this partnership.
“The aerospace industry has always been about connecting people. The partnership with Istanbul Airport focuses precisely on the ‘human connection’ at the heart of learning. We’re honored to sign this game-changing agreement and ensure that the next generation of leaders possess the competencies required to drive our industry forward,” says McGonigal.
For over 30 years, Airbus Beyond has been dedicated to the advancement of competencies and expertise, utilising innovative and empowering methods. With over 350 partners, it has been able to share its transformative experiences and knowledge worldwide.
The merging of forces and expertise, between Airbus and Istanbul Airport, to provide cutting-edge educational experiences for professionals is paving the way to cultivate an innovative environment in the future of aviation.
How do you believe this merger in educational operations will develop the knowledge of professionals in aviation? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
