Turkish Airlines Nears Decision on Major Boeing 737 Max Order

Turkish Airlines is preparing to meet with Boeing to finalize its long-awaited order for 150 Boeing 737 Max aircraft, Chairman Ahmet Bolat told Reuters.

Bolat cautioned that the airline could pivot to Airbus if talks over engine agreements stall, stating, “We’ll ask, ‘Are you in or out?’ If not, we’ll turn another page.” The carrier’s pending deal includes 100 firm orders and 50 options for Boeing 737-8 and 737-10 variants, first announced in September 2025.

Discussions also involve a potential investment to establish an engine maintenance centre in Türkiye. CFM International—a joint venture between GE Aerospace and Safran Aircraft Engines—is the exclusive engine supplier for the 737 Max and competes with Pratt & Whitney for Airbus A320neo contracts.

Separately, Turkish Airlines confirmed on November 5 that it has finalized an agreement with GE Aerospace covering engines and maintenance services for its 75 Boeing 787 Dreamliners scheduled for delivery between 2029 and 2034. The airline has ordered 35 Boeing 787-9s and 15 Boeing 787-10s, with options for 25 additional aircraft.

Bolat also revealed that Turkish Airlines’ acquisition of a 25–27% stake in Spain’s Air Europa (UX, Palma de Mallorca) for EUR 300 million (USD 345 million) is close to completion. He added that the carrier continues to explore new strategic partnerships across Asia, North America, South America, and other regions.

Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, reuters.com

Tags: chaviation

Turkish Airlines Nears Decision on Major Boeing 737 Max Order

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