Turkish Airlines has placed its largest order for Boeing single-aisle aircraft, agreeing to buy 100 737 MAX jets with options for a further 50.
The agreement, announced in New York last week in the presence of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, covers 100 Boeing 737-8 aircraft. It also allows the airline to switch some of them to the larger 737-10 model. The additional 50 jets are options, rather than confirmed purchases.
Prof Murat Şeker, chairman of Turkish Airlines’ board and executive committee, said the new aircraft “will bring greater efficiency and flexibility to our operations”, helping the carrier serve its network from Istanbul. Stephanie Pope, president and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes, said the order reflected the “trust and shared vision” behind the companies’ long relationship.
L-R: Prof Murat Şeker (Turkish Airlines), President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, and Stephanie Pope (Boeing Commercial Airplanes)
The jets are intended for short- and medium-haul routes. The deal follows Turkish Airlines’ 2025 order for up to 75 Boeing 787 Dreamliners, which are used on longer routes. No price or delivery timetable was disclosed in the announcement.
Founded in 1933 with five aircraft, Turkish Airlines now has a fleet of 567 passenger and cargo planes. According to figures supplied with the announcement, it flies to 358 destinations in 133 countries.
