Turkish Airlines Closes In on Engine Deal for 737 MAX Fleet

Turkish Airlines is nearing an agreement with CFM International over engine pricing and maintenance terms for its up to 150 Boeing 737 MAX aircraft order. CEO Ahmet Olmustur told Bloomberg HT that talks are ongoing and a deal should be finalized soon.

The airline had previously secured a firm order for 100 Boeing 737-8 planes and options for another 50 737 MAX jets in the largest single-aisle Boeing order in Turkish Airlines' history. The agreement also allows Turkish Airlines to switch aircraft to the larger 737-10 model, the largest member of the 737 MAX family.

Olmustur said that the airline is working to offset higher jet fuel costs due to the ongoing war in the Middle East and has managed capacity well by shifting planes to markets with strong demand. Turkish Airlines plans to open new routes in the Far East and nearby markets in 2027 and aims to become the first Turkish company to rank among the world's 100 most valuable brands.