Mehmet Zeki Hızlı

Born in Elazığ, Mehmet Zeki Hızlı took part in saz, oud and folk-dance activities at the Elazığ Music Society during his youth. After Elazığ High School, he graduated from the four-year electronics programme at the Turkish Air Force Academy and completed postgraduate MBA studies.

He spent most of his life in Istanbul and visited numerous countries as part of his duties. For many years, he has conducted research and development work particularly in aviation, environment, defence and biology. He founded HAVADER Aviation Association to contribute to the field; the association later ceased operations due to insufficient interest.

A recipient of State Medal of Honour No. 4237, Mehmet Zeki Hızlı is a retired captain and veteran. His final aviation post was as an Airbus A350 captain pilot. He continues his R&D and music work in his own workshop and studio, performing only his original compositions.