The continuous increase of the turbine inlet temperature in gas turbines necessitates new thermal barrier coatings (TBCs) with enhanced temperature capability and longer lifetime. This paper reviews our recent challenges to develop new plasma-sprayed TBC systems for the next generation of land-based gas turbine engines. It is shown that the addition of small amounts of La₂O₃ is effective in reducing the thermal conductivity of Y₂O₃-stabilized ZrO₂ plasma-sprayed top coats. It is also revealed that precise control of the oxygen partial pressure of the pre-oxidation atmosphere leads to an improvement of the oxidation resistance of MCrAlY bond coats. The newly-developed TBCs show much longer thermal cycle life than that of conventional coatings.