Turkish Airlines is currently engaged in negotiations with both Airbus and Boeing to procure 235 aircraft as part of its expansion plans, as announced by Chairman Ahmet Bolat on Monday, April 29th.
The airline is indeed in discussions for a substantial new aircraft order, encompassing models from both Airbus and Boeing, totaling 235 aircraft. This proposed deal involves a significant number of narrow-body and wide-body jets aimed at expanding and modernizing Turkish Airlines’ fleet.
Turkish Airlines unveiled a 10-year fleet plan last year, indicating its ambition to expand its fleet by nearly 600 planes. In December 2023, it announced a deal with Airbus for 355 firm and optional orders for A321 narrow-body and A350 wide-body aircraft.
“We are currently in negotiations with both Airbus and Boeing for the remaining 235 planes,” stated Bolat during an event held in Istanbul with Airbus and Rolls-Royce representatives.
These negotiations include orders for 150 Airbus A321neo jets, 50 Airbus A350-900s, 15 Airbus A350-1000s, and 20 Boeing 787 Dreamliners. This diverse selection of aircraft models underscores Turkish Airlines’ strategy to maintain a balanced fleet, with narrow-body jets catering to regional routes and wide-body aircraft serving long-haul international flights.
Bolat emphasized Turkish Airlines’ consistent policy of maintaining a balanced relationship between Airbus and Boeing. He mentioned that while they await the resolution of issues faced by Boeing, they are not under pressure to rush their decision-making process.
Additionally, Bolat revealed that Rolls-Royce is exploring the possibility of establishing maintenance, repair, and overhaul capabilities in Turkey, as well as expanding its supply chain sourcing.
The event was convened to introduce a strategic program developed by Turkish Airlines in collaboration with Airbus and aerospace companies in Turkey, aimed at fostering the growth of the Turkish aerospace industry.
Related news: https://www.airguide.info/?s=turkish+airlines
Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, reuters.com
