Turkish Airlines is a rising force in the European and Middle East aviation industry, capturing the interest of investors, alliance partners and rivals. The fast-growing carrier is not only increasing its size at a time when the majority of its European counterparts are shrinking, but is profitable whilst doing so. After reporting the third largest net profit and seventh largest operating profits in the aviation industry in 2008, the airline's revenues and profits are expected to increase from these bases in 2009. Investors are clearly delighted with the airline’s growth trajectory, with Turkish Airlines’ stock surging 425% in 2009 – the biggest gain by far among carriers tracked by The Centre globally last year. But can the dream run continue?