Turkish Cargo, the global air cargo brand of Turkish Airlines, introduced TK AUTO, a logistics product specially developed for the sensitive and time-critical transportation needs of the automotive industry, at a launch event held during the Air Cargo China exhibition. Comprising two segments, TK AUTO provides fast and reliable transportation solutions for different operational requirements through its AUTO PART and AUTO FINISHED options.
TK AUTO PART has been designed for the fast, reliable, and flexible transportation of critical automotive components required in both manufacturing and aftermarket operations, including engine and transmission components, braking systems, airbags, and electric vehicle equipment. Shipments within this service scope are handled with priority loading procedures compared to general cargo, helping ensure the uninterrupted continuity of production processes.
TK AUTO FINISHED has been developed for the transportation of motorised passenger cars, electric vehicles, prototype and test vehicles, as well as luxury and premium segment automobiles, in addition to special vehicles such as motorcycles, ATVs, Sea-Doos, and Ski-Doos. Going beyond standard cargo processes, this service provides expert team support, enhanced operational processes, and tailored vehicle transportation solutions:
- Special loading plans and expert team support: Before each shipment, loading scenarios tailored to the specific type of vehicle are prepared. Certified Loadmaster teams manage the loading, securing, and unloading processes of vehicles on-site, ensuring that the operational plan is implemented correctly in the field. All processes are carried out in accordance with sensitive handling techniques and operational control procedures.
- Secure storage and priority operation with the LUXE service: Vehicles within the LUXE service developed for high-value automobiles, are stored in specially secured areas at the SMARTIST facility. Critical steps in the operational process are documented through photographic recording. Supported by priority loading applications within its speed-focused services, this solution provides additional assurance and operational visibility in vehicle transportation that requires special care.
- Operational control strengthened through digitalised processes: Reservations for automotive spare parts shipments can be easily made via the TKGO platform and digital sales channels. For finished vehicle transportation, pre-booking processes are accelerated through customised volume calculations.
Commenting on the launch, Turkish Airlines Chief Cargo Officer, Ali Türk said: “In automotive logistics, need-specific solutions are as important as speed. Therefore, in developing TK AUTO, we aimed to provide an end-to-end structure capable of meeting the diverse operational requirements of the automotive industry. In this way, we are able to effectively manage sensitive processes ranging from time-critical spare parts transportation that supports production continuity to high-value vehicle operations. While our reservation processes are supported by digital integration, our on-site operations are carried out by expert teams and defined procedures. With this dedicated structure of TK AUTO, we provide not only the speed requirements of the automotive industry but also production continuity and greater visibility in transportation processes. As Turkish Cargo, we will continue to provide reliable solutions to the evolving needs of our business partners through our extensive flight network, modern infrastructure, and expertise in special cargo transportation.”
TK AUTO, which extends Turkish Cargo’s expertise in value-added air cargo transportation to automotive logistics, aims to contribute to the automotive industry by supporting speed, reliability, and operational visibility across all processes from production to delivery, while further advancing Turkish Cargo’s expertise in special cargo operations.
