Turkish Airlines Delays Aircraft Engine Decision Amid Order Considerations
Turkish Airlines (TK) has received revised proposals for up to 600 new-generation aircraft from manufacturers, but the airline has not yet finalized its decision on engine options, according to Chief Financial Officer Murat Seker. Engine considerations are playing a significant role in the decision-making process, as the airline evaluates different aircraft types and associated maintenance contracts. The delay in announcing a decision is expected to be temporary.
Earlier in May 2023, Turkish Airlines revealed plans to order 400 narrowbody and 200 widebody aircraft. Delays in finalizing the contract have been attributed to factors such as the Turkish presidential elections and extended negotiations with Airbus and Boeing. The airline is aiming for an annual capacity growth of 7-10% in terms of available seat kilometers (ASKs), and it is open to securing additional capacity through operating leases if required.
As of August 4, Turkish Airlines’ fleet consisted of 425 aircraft, including those operated by its subsidiary, AnadoluJet. The airline expects to grow its net fleet to around 460-470 by the end of 2024, 500 by the end of 2025, and eventually reach about 600 by 2028. The exact growth trajectory will depend on the finalization of the aircraft order.
Turkish Airlines’ existing order book includes forty-eight A321-200N narrowbodies, twelve A350-900 widebodies, and seven Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners. The airline’s low-cost subsidiary, AnadoluJet, is positioned as a key platform for growth, having recently been spun off into a separate company. However, its certification is pending, and it currently operates using the parent company’s code.
The airline has also faced challenges related to Pratt & Whitney PW1100G engines, leading to the grounding of nine of its A321-200NX aircraft for inspections. The technical team continues to assess the situation, with the possibility of additional aircraft being added to the grounded list in the coming months.