According to information obtained by AirportHaber, Southwind Airlines, which commenced operations in August 2022 under Cortex Aviation, has been acquired by Süleyman Kilit, the owner of Kilit Group. This acquisition marks a strategic move for Kilit Group as it ventures into the aviation sector.
Major changes anticipated
It is expected that Süleyman Kilit will implement substantial changes to the company's structure and operations in the near future, reflecting his leadership style and growth-oriented vision.
Kilit Group’s impact on tourism
Kilit Group is one of Türkiye’s leading tourism companies, renowned for its Crystal Hotels and Nirvana Hotels brand. The group has a strong presence in the sector and is known for its significant investments and expansion strategies. With this acquisition, Kilit Group diversifies its portfolio by stepping into the aviation industry, complementing its robust tourism operations.
Who is Süleyman Kilit?
Süleyman Kilit, the founder of Kilit Group, is a prominent figure in Türkiye’s tourism sector. As the Chairman of Crystal Hotels, he has earned a reputation as the "king of hotels" due to the group's extensive network of properties. Known for his philanthropic efforts and innovative investments, Kilit continues to shape the industry with his forward-thinking approach.
Crystal Hotels: A growth story
Crystal Hotels serves as the flagship of Kilit Group’s tourism operations. The group began its journey in 2005 with the opening of Crystal Palace in Belek-Boğazkent. Since then, it has expanded rapidly, now managing 17 properties.
A new era in aviation
The acquisition of Southwind Airlines represents a strategic diversification for Kilit Group, marking the start of a new chapter in its business ventures. Süleyman Kilit’s move signifies a bold step towards establishing a foothold in the aviation sector while reinforcing the group’s influence in the tourism industry.
With the new acquisition, Kilit Group has added the aviation sector to its areas of activity, which include hotel management, tour operation, DMC and supply chain.
