27.07.2026 19:51
Turkish Airlines pilot congratulated the National Women's Volleyball Team, returning home as champions of the 2026 Nations League, with an in-flight announcement made in the sky. In the footage recorded inside the plane, the pilot's congratulatory announcement in Turkish and English was met with applause from the national athletes and passengers.
The champion of the 2026 FIVB Nations League, the Turkish Women's National Volleyball Team, returned home via Turkish Airlines' flight TK171 from Hong Kong to Istanbul.
SURPRISE ANNOUNCEMENT FROM THE PILOT
During the flight, the pilot made a surprise announcement for the champion athletes and technical team.
In his announcement, the pilot said, "Dear passengers and Sultans of the Net, right now, above the clouds, we are sharing a great pride together. With the faith, determination, and struggle you showed on the court, you not only won the championship but also won the hearts of 85 million people once again. You once again showed the strength and success of Turkish women to the entire world. On behalf of myself, my crew, and the Turkish Airlines family, we sincerely thank each and every one of you for this great pride and happiness you have given us."
NATIONAL ATHLETES AND PASSENGERS RESPONDED WITH APPLAUSE
Footage recorded on the plane shows national athletes and passengers applauding in response to the pilot's congratulatory announcement, made in both Turkish and English.