Turkey's aerospace and technological aspirations are displayed at the commencement of Teknofest
The world's largest aerospace and technology festival, Teknofest, has begun its eighth edition at Atatürk Airport in Istanbul. This annual event, running since 2018, is expected to attract record-breaking attendance, continuing its tradition of inspiring young minds and showcasing Turkey's growing technological ecosystem.
Selçuk Bayraktar, the CTO of Baykar and the chairman of the TEKNOFEST executive council, emphasized that Teknofest is more than just a festival. It's about preparing for the competitions of tomorrow and inspiring the younger generation to turn their ideas into reality. Bayraktar's ultimate goal for Teknofest is to build self-confidence in young people and help them rebuild the global order with science and ancient values.
Teams that have passed the preliminary rounds will receive more than TL 85 million ($2.06 million) in financial support, while prize winners will be awarded over TL 65 million. Competition categories span critical technologies, including aerospace, robotics, artificial intelligence, biotechnology, autonomous systems, and sustainable energy.
Visitors can participate in science workshops, simulations, and even experience their first flight opportunities. Children and young people are at the heart of Teknofest, with attractions such as the Teknofest Time Tunnel, a planetarium, and interactive science shows available.
The festival also features exhibitions of Turkey's indigenous land, sea, and air platforms, including the latest aerospace and defense technologies. The Turkish Air Force's Soloturk and Turkish Stars will perform aerial demonstrations, and F-16 fighter jets, Atak helicopters, Hürkuş aircraft, Bayraktar TB2, TB3, and Akıncı drones will also take to the skies.
In addition to the technical aspects, Teknofest offers an extensive program that includes air shows, science demonstrations, concerts, stage performances, and interactive workshops for visitors of all ages.
Bayraktar also addressed global injustices, particularly the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, stating that babies, children, and innocent people are being massacred there. He called on the younger generation to transform the country and rebuild the global order with science and ancient values, emphasizing that the National Technology Initiative is not just about producing faster rockets or smarter systems, but about combining technological power with moral responsibility.
Since its launch, Teknofest has drawn nearly 11 million visitors. This year's Istanbul edition is expected to add to that figure, with more than 1.1 million young people applying across 565,000 teams to compete in 64 different contests.
Teknofest remains a beacon of innovation and a testament to Turkey's commitment to fostering a vibrant and competitive tech industry. The festival site will be open daily from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., and participation is free of charge, but visitors are required to register online.
