Teknofest 2025 kicks off in Istanbul with innovation, competitions, and air shows

The world’s largest aerospace and technology festival, Teknofest, opens its doors for the 12th edition today, September 17, offering a vibrant program that merges innovation-driven competitions with spectacular air shows, creating a unique space where technology and excitement meet.

Turkish media reports that organised under the Türkiye Technology Team Foundation (T3 Foundation) and the Ministry of Industry and Technology, Teknofest will run until September 21 at Atatürk Airport, hosting final competitions, award ceremonies, technology exhibitions, and panel discussions, attracting scientists and the general public alike.

The festival spans a wide array of sectors, from health technologies and financial innovations to defence and biotechnology, with competitions aimed at boosting Türkiye’s research and development (R&D) capacity.

This year, participants will compete in 54 main categories and 127 subcategories. Teams that advance past the preliminary rounds will benefit from financial support exceeding TL 85 million ($2.06 million), while winners will receive awards totalling over TL 65 million.

Beyond financial rewards, extensive material support will help participants advance their projects. Teams from around the globe will also have the opportunity to share knowledge and experience, taking meaningful steps toward technological innovation.

Istanbul serves as the second stop for Teknofest in 2025, following the festival’s first event in the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC). Since its inception, Teknofest has inspired nearly 11 million visitors, and this edition promises to once again spread the winds of technology and innovation throughout the city.

Festival highlights include thrilling air shows, exhibitions, workshops, simulation-based experience zones, a planetarium, fairground events, and special student flight activities, among many other technology-driven experiences. Entry is free, and visitors can register via Teknofest.org, with festival hours set from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Teknofest competitions continue to attract a growing number of young participants. Secretary-General Muhammet Saymaz noted that in 2018, nearly 20,000 participants applied across 14 categories. This year, applications have expanded dramatically, with 1.1 million young people registering to compete, and the number of applicants consistently exceeds 1 million annually.

Elvan Kuzucu Hıdır, chairperson of the T3 Foundation’s board, highlighted that applications this year came from nearly 100 countries, with teams from dozens advancing to the finals.

Hıdır emphasised the advanced and professional nature of Teknofest competitions, noting partnerships with leading companies like Baykar, Roketsan, and Aselsan, which contribute to both the design and execution of the competitions. “Our competitions stand out globally because they unite industry, academia, and young people, from high school to university, creating a vital platform for innovation,” she said.

By Tamilla Hasanova