Introduction to Pegasus Airlines

Founded in 1990, Pegasus Airlines has evolved from a charter airline into one of the most innovative and fastest-growing low-cost carriers in the world. Renowned for its operational efficiency and customer-centric approach, Pegasus connects over 100 destinations across Europe, the Middle East, and Asia, offering affordable and reliable air travel.

Located in Istanbul, the Pegasus Aviation Technologies is a state-of-the-art facility supporting the airline’s growth and safety focus. It provides training device services and technology development. Designed to meet growing market demand, the center is a cornerstone of Pegasus’s operational excellence.

Introduction to Tuğrul Ünaydın (Accountable Manager)

Tuğrul Ünaydın, a computer engineer with extensive experience in aviation, brings a unique blend of technical expertise and operational knowledge to Pegasus Aviation Technologies. Under his leadership, the center has adapted to the dynamic needs of the aviation industry, leveraging cutting-edge technology to deliver practical and efficient training solutions.

Mert: It's unusual for a low-cost carrier to establish its own flight academy. How did Pegasus’s in-house training operations begin?

Tuğrul: It’s true that it’s not common for an LCC like us to have a flight academy. However, as our fleet has been growing rapidly, we recognized the need for reliable and efficient training to maintain our standards. Initially focused on internal needs, we soon saw an opportunity to contribute to the broader aviation community.

Mert: As a computer engineer, how do you view digital’s role in aviation training?

Tuğrul: The future of aviation training lies in integrating advanced technologies like real-time data analytics and predictive systems. These tools enhance accuracy, compliance, and efficiency. Platforms like Simorg redefine the synergy between technology and aviation training, making processes more dynamic and adaptable. For the future perspective, especially in a rapidly evolving environment, companies which catch the benefits of Artificial Intelligence will be more likely to lead in their sectors.

Mert: Why did Pegasus choose Simorg instead of developing in-house software?

Tuğrul: Sometimes, the right decision is not to build but to buy. Choosing Simorg allowed us to access innovation faster and with less risk, complementing our existing systems effectively.

Mert: How does Simorg align with Pegasus’s commitment to cutting-edge technology?

Tuğrul: Training continuity is critical to our operations. Simorg has turned a complex and essential process into a structured, scalable reality, ensuring seamless operations and preventing delays or cancellations.

Mert: How has Simorg enhanced Pegasus Aviation Technologies operations?

Tuğrul: Simorg’s integration with our crew planning system automates slot creation and reflects it back in the kiosks, simplifying training logs for both crew and instructors. Its compliance reports save significant time while ensuring accuracy. Additionally, Simorg supports inventory management, maintenance scheduling, audit planning, and risk assessments, consolidating all our operational needs into one platform.

Mert: What is Pegasus’s vision for training as the fleet continues to grow?

Tuğrul: Our vision is to stay ahead by building a scalable and efficient FSTD operation. We aim to ensure every crew member receives top-quality training that aligns with the demands of our expanding operations.

Results and Benefits

• Scalability: Seamlessly supports Pegasus’s expanding fleet and training needs.
• Operational Efficiency: Automatic slot creation, compliance reporting, and streamlined processes.
• Comprehensive Management: Consolidates sim planning, inventory management, and risk assessments into one platform.
• Innovation Alignment: Strengthens Pegasus’s reputation as a leader in adopting cutting-edge technology.

Looking Ahead, Statement from Mert Yağcı

"It’s not every day you meet a business partner who treats innovation as a core part of their work, not just a nice extra. Being on this journey with a team so focused on digital transformation is truly exciting."