Turkish Airlines' $10 Billion Bet on Boeing Amid Engine Dispute

Turkish Airlines has finalized its largest-ever Boeing single-aisle order, committing to 100 Boeing 737-8 MAX aircraft with options for another 50 and rights to substitute the larger 737-10.

The agreement ends negotiations that began in 2025 and gives Boeing a major strategic victory against European rival Airbus at one of the world's fastest-growing global airlines.

However, there is still an unresolved engine dispute between Turkish Airlines and CFM International LEAP engines powering the MAX.

Turkish Airlines needs a large number of aircraft to support its ambitious expansion program, which aims for a fleet of over 800 aircraft by 2033 and more than 170 million passengers annually.

The airline is not abandoning Airbus, as it placed an enormous order including 150 A321-family aircraft and 70 A350-family aircraft in December 2023. The dual-supplier strategy allows Turkish Airlines to negotiate with two manufacturers and maintain credible competition between Toulouse and Seattle.