Turkish Airlines renames jets after July 15 coup bid

ANKARA (AA) – Turkish Airlines has renamed eight of its planes after districts in Istanbul and Ankara which played a central role in suppressing the deadly failed July 15 coup.

According to a statement from the company, the move came "to crown the attitude which protected the country's unity in the wake of the traitorous coup attempt on July 15".

"Accordingly, the names of Kazan and Golbasi districts and the Bestepe neighborhood [Ankara] and the Sarachane, Cengelkoy, Kavacik, Acibadem, Atisalani neighborhoods [Istanbul] will be given to eight planes in the fleet".

The company said these areas had produced major victories against the attempted coup.

At least 240 people were martyred in the foiled putsch which the government has said was organized by the followers of U.S.-based preacher Fetullah Gulen.

Gulen is also accused of leading a long-running campaign to overthrow the Turkish government through the infiltration of state institutions, particularly the military, police and judiciary, forming what is commonly known as the parallel state.

The Turkish flag carrier flies to more countries than any other airline, with 323 aircraft flying to 289 destinations worldwide, according to the company.​