Captain receives honors as he retires after 48 years and 33,000 flight hours

The Turkish state airline, Turkish Airlines, paid the honors to experienced pilot Ceyhan Yılmazcan, who retired last week. On the left side of the cabin of the Airbus A330, the captain was carrying out his last mission above the clouds on the route between Istanbul and Hamburg, with a farewell cake cut for him at the airport in the German city.

As the Turkish agency Anadolu reports , commander Yılmazcan was accompanied by co-pilot Gökhan Arık, son of his childhood friend, fellow pilot Mehmet Arık, who retired in April. On his return from Hamburg, Yılmazcan was greeted with flowers by his colleagues and family at Istanbul airport.

Yılmazcan, who started his pilot career as a military pilot in 1974, joined Turkish Airlines in 1996, which had 36 aircraft in its fleet at the time. The captain embarked on a long and successful journey with the flag carrier and assumed responsibilities in instructor positions, helping to make the airline one of the most successful airlines in the world.

33 Thousand hours flown

Yılmazcan, who spent 33,000 hours of his life (equivalent to 3.75 years) in the pilot’s seat, addressed the passengers of his last flight with a special announcement, saying:

“ Ladies, gentlemen and dear children, As your commander, Ceyhan Yılmazcan, I am making the most significant announcement of my 48-year-old piloting profession. With this flight, I will complete my adventure in the sky and say goodbye to the profession of pilot, which is a passion for me. I’m going to spend time with my grandchildren and tell them about the memories I’ve accumulated over the last few years. I wish you and the Turkish Airlines family safe landings on your flights and good health and happiness in your lives.”

The pilot’s life

Yılmazcan said he was sorry to say goodbye to heaven. Stating that he is very happy to see 48 years completed with safety, happiness and love, he said: “It is a great chance to be a pilot, but to be a pilot for a flag carrier like Turkish Airlines that gives you the opportunity to see all the world makes this chance even more special. I advise young people who dream of becoming pilots to work hard and not give up. I wish safe flights to my friends and all the Turkish Airlines family who are still working.”