Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen Airport has launched Turkiye’s First Airport Loyalty Program

After two pandemic years and coronavirus-driven restrictions, tourism industry has experienced a summer travel bounce due to the human drive to bust out and explore the world. But post-pandemic surge in air travel came with its unique problems causing delays, cancellations and adding up to travel anxiety resulting in major stress while flying which is reflected in passenger behaviour towards airport staff.

In line with its “we care” brand promise, Sabiha Gökçen took the necessary steps to look at passenger stress points while raising awareness among the passengers with regards to the airport staff that keep operations going 7/24 to make sure travellers arrive to their next destinations smoothly and conveniently.

“To enjoy a smooth trip please observe the laws and regulations at the airport and treat employees with dignity & respect. Because #WeCare” the awareness pamphlets read and “Give respect to Get Respect” message was reinforced during the airport operator’s launch event with the participation of public authorities, stakeholders and staff from Police officers to help desk clerks and from cleaners to guest attenders.

Berk Albayrak, CEO of Sabiha Gökçen International Airport said, “we are leading the way with programs like this that raise awareness and acknowledge the hard work that our diverse teams put into effect.“

To raise awareness amongst travellers, Sabiha Gökçen has designed a campaign that is rolled out across all airport communication channels: at check-in desks and point of sale for food and beverage throughout the terminal, and in digital across the entire video monitors sharing information and best practices, reminding passengers that the airport staff is working devotedly for their safety, security and comfort.

Badges, lanyards and yo-yo attachments bearing “Respect makes us smile” and “we care” messages were handed out to staff working primarily at passenger touchpoints.

“We cater to thousands of passengers every day at Sabiha Gökçen Airport, where approximately 600 aircraft land and take off daily. It is great happiness for us to always host our passengers in the safest, most comfortable way and to send them from here with pleasent feelings... It is important that the employees working at the terminal work in a peaceful environment while serving our passengers and reflect this to our passengers in the same way. Therefore, the message given by the project ”Respect Makes You Smile“ and ”We Care” is valuable for all of us," Albayrak added.

Sabiha Gökçen Airport serves 149 destinations located across 50 countries.

Main image: (r-l) Berk Albayrak, CEO of Sabiha Gökçen International Airport pictured with Song Hoi See, Founder of Arrture and CEO of Plaza Premium Group at ISG PORTPAL’s partner’s event.