Turkish Airlines Nears $20 Billion Deal for Up to 150 Boeing 737 MAX Jets

Turkish Airlines is moving forward with its plan to acquire up to 150 Boeing 737 MAX aircraft after a prolonged dispute over engine maintenance terms delayed the deal. The order, which includes 100 firm aircraft and 50 options, forms part of a broader Boeing fleet expansion plan announced by the carrier last year.

The original agreement was made in September 2025 alongside an order for up to 75 Boeing 787 Dreamliners. However, the MAX portion of the deal was delayed due to disagreements involving CFM International, the engine maker for the aircraft. Turkish Airlines had threatened to walk away from the deal and consider Airbus aircraft if the dispute over engine pricing and maintenance arrangements could not be resolved.

The disagreement focused on maintenance rather than the aircraft itself, with Turkish Airlines seeking an industrial arrangement related to the servicing of engines that power the 737 MAX. The carrier was interested in strengthening its own engine-maintenance capabilities in Turkey, according to industry sources.