FLEET - Turkish Airlines has removed five aircraft from its fleet: one A330-200, serial 961; one A321, serial 3738; and three A320, serials 3567, 3719 and 3558

The aircraft are parked at Istanbul Sabiha Goksen airport. THY plans to add seven A321neo and two A350-900 aircraft in 1Q 2027

Aviator / Flyingphotos

ORDER - Boeing and Turkish Airlines Finalize Order for up to 150 737 MAX Jets

Airline's largest Boeing single-aisle order follows record 787 Dreamliner purchase

737 MAX will strengthen Turkish Airlines' short- and medium-haul network

NEW YORK, Sept. 23, 2026 /PRNewswire(opens in a new tab)/ -- Boeing [NYSE: BA] and Turkish Airlines today announced an order for up to 150 737 MAX airplanes, concluding the discussions initiated in 2025 and supporting the flag carrier's expansion goals.

The agreement for the 737 MAX order was finalized in the presence of His Excellency Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, president of the Republic of Türkiye.

Boeing and Turkish Airlines Finalize Order for up to 150 737 MAX Jets.

Prof Murat Şeker, Turkish Airlines chairman of the board and the executive committee; His Excellency Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, president of the Republic of Türkiye; and Stephanie Pope, president and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes, mark the signing of Turkish Airlines' order for up to 150 737 MAX airplanes.

Turkish Airlines purchased 100 737-8 airplanes and secured options for 50 more 737 MAX jets, making this the airline's largest Boeing single-aisle order. The agreement includes substitution rights for the 737-10, the largest 737 MAX variant, so Turkish Airlines can comfortably serve more passengers on more routes to meet growing demand.

"This agreement marks another significant step in the continued expansion of our fleet. The new Boeing 737 MAX aircraft will bring greater efficiency and flexibility to our operations, supporting the extensive network we serve from our hub in Istanbul," said Prof Murat Şeker, Turkish Airlines chairman of the board and the executive committee. "We are pleased to build on our longstanding cooperation with Boeing through an agreement that also supports Türkiye's aviation ecosystem."

Turkish Airlines (including AJet) operates a fleet of more than 200 Boeing airplanes, including the 737 MAX, 787 Dreamliner, 777, 737 Next-Generation and 777 Freighter. By adding more 737-8 jets to its fleet, the airline will leverage the airplane's range, payload flexibility and fuel efficiency to serve high-demand domestic and international routes.

"This order reflects the trust and shared vision that have defined our long-standing partnership with Turkish Airlines," said Stephanie Pope, president and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes. "We're proud to continue our support of Türkiye's aviation ecosystem and Turkish Airlines as it grows its Istanbul-based network, connecting more people and destinations worldwide."

The 737 MAX family reduces fuel use and emissions by 20% compared to the airplanes they replace, enabling lower operating costs and supporting the airline's growth strategy to meet rising travel demand.

Turkish Airlines' 737 MAX purchase builds on its 2025 order for up to 75 787 Dreamliners as part of the global carrier's investment in fleet and network expansion. The agreement is also accompanied by industrial participation, under which Boeing continues its commitment and support of the Turkish aviation ecosystem.

 

SPECIAL LIVERY - TURKISH AIRLINES / A330-300 / TC-JOD - Malazgirt, Nexus of the World cs

Flyingphotos
 

FLEET - Turkish Airlines to add 7 leased A321-200NX

 Turkish Airlines (TK, Istanbul Airport) will expand its fleet by leasing seven new A321-200NX from CALC, the airline announced at the Farnborough Air Show on July 20, 2026. This marks the first collaboration between the airline and the Hong Kong-based leasing firm. According to ch-aviation fleets data, Turkish Airlines currently operates seventy-four A321-200NX (thirty-four of them leased) and one leased A321-200N.

CH Aviation / Flyingphotos

SPECIAL LIVERY - THY Turkish Airlines / A330-200 / TC-JNB - Turkiye c_s)

Ton Jochems
 

Turkish Airlines mulls acquiring ex-Spirit aircraft

Turkish Airlines (TK, Istanbul Airport) has been in negotiations with lessors to acquire between seven and ten former Spirit Airlines aircraft, according to chairman Murat Şeker.

In an interview with the Financial Times, Şeker confirmed that Turkish Airlines had been in discussions, although the talks are now on hold due to the “current situation.”

ch-aviation data shows Turkish Airlines operates a fleet of 482 aircraft, including eighteen A320-200s, twenty-three A320-200Ns, and sixty-eight A321-200s, the aircraft types formerly used by Spirit, which went bankrupt and ceased operations on May 2, 2026.

Acquiring some of the used aircraft would serve as a way for Turkish to continue with its expansion plans in a context where new deliveries from manufacturers are coming slowly, due to supply chain constraints.

In the widebody segment, Turkish Airlines is set to receive about 36 planes in the coming four years, Şeker said.

Due to the economic landscape worldwide, heavily impacted by growing fuel prices, Turkish Airlines has adjusted its network, trimming 21 routes, out of 350 destinations. However, it has retained some loss-making services, where it makes sense as feeders to its Istanbul hub. This approach, Şeker told the Financial Times, reflects lessons learned during the pandemic. “If you make a drastic cut in the network, we know it takes a much bigger effort to recover.”

CH Aviation / Photo: Duncan Stewart

ROUTES - Turkish Airlines will radually suspends 18 destinations from May and June 202

including Aqaba, Billund, Bissau, Ferghana, Freetown, Havana, Hurghada, Juba, Kinshasa, Kirkuk, Leipzig/Halle, Libreville, Luanda, Lusaka, Monrovia, Najaf, Pointe Noire and Turkistan.

Photo: Duncan Stewart - LAX

SPECIAL STICKER - Turkish Airlines Unveils Its 500th Aircraft Featuring a Special Livery of 100,000 Employees

Joining the fleet at the end of 2025, the 500th aircraft named ‘TK Family’ was unveiled during a special launch event today by the Turkish flag carrier.

The unveiling of the 500th aircraft, featuring a special livery designed with photographs of Turkish Airlines’ 100,000 employees and retirees, was held with wide and meaningful participation, reflecting the spirit of unity and solidarity. The event at Istanbul Airport was attended by executives from Turkish Airlines and its subsidiaries, former senior executives, employees and retirees, as well as prominent figures from the aviation industry.

The launch also featured children of martyrs who gave their lives for the Turkish nation, representing all 81 provinces of Türkiye, and the cast of Turkish Airlines' memorable Iğdır* (When You Dream) commercial. This special gathering once again demonstrated that Turkish Airlines' growth story consists of not only numbers but also shared effort, loyalty, and solidarity.

Turkish Airlines Chairman of the Board and the Executive Committee Prof.  Ahmet Bolat stated at this special event: "Our 500th aircraft represents far more than a new addition to our fleet; it stands as a symbol of 93 years of dedication, determination, and shared vision. Having considerably accelerated our journey to the top after 2003 with 65 aircraft, today we take pride in reaching 356 destinations across six continents with over 500 aircraft. Twelve years ago, when we filmed our ‘When You Dream’ commercial with 247 aircraft and 247 destinations, the 500th aircraft was a dream. Witnessing that dream become reality today holds a special meaning for the entire Turkish Airlines family. We see our 500th aircraft not as a milestone marking an end, but as the beginning of the 'Second 500' era. In line with our goal of reaching a fleet of 1,000 aircraft by 2036, we remain committed to positioning our country as one of the global hubs of aviation."

As part of this unveiling, the “TK Family” aircraft performed a special ceremonial flight, tracing the number 500 in the sky to mark the beginning of the airline’s ‘Second 500’ era. Operated under flight number TK500, the flight carried the children of martyrs and their families, along with Turkish Airlines executives, former senior executives, and employees.

Aircraft representing key milestones in Turkish Airlines’ fleet expansion were also showcased at the event venue, alongside a full-scale replica of the airline’s first aircraft, drawing significant interest. The fleet milestone aircraft were introduced in the following years:

100th Aircraft– August 2006

200th Aircraft– November 2012

300th Aircraft– February 2016

400th Aircraft– March 2023

500th Aircraft– December 2025

While continuing to enhance operational efficiency and passenger comfort through investments in modern aircraft, Turkish Airlines remains committed to strengthening its fleet in line with its sustainable growth strategy. The 500th Aircraft symbolizes not only the airline’s current strength, but also its vision of reaching a fleet of 1,000 aircraft by 2036.

Drawing strength from its heritage as it confidently moves toward the future, Turkish Airlines continues to write new success stories in global aviation, guided by its principle of “growing together, rising together.”

 

SPECIAL LIVERY - Turkish Airline / A330-303 / TC-LNF / MSN: 1713 - " Holidays - Flight, Hotel, and more "

Photo: Jorge Medina
 

ORDER - Turkish Airlines to Expand Its Fleet with Boeing Order

Flying to more countries than any other airline worldwide, Turkish Airlines is taking another significant step forward in line with its strategic growth plans.

The national flag carrier has reached an agreement with Boeing, and will add a total of 75 wide-body Boeing 787-9 and 787-10 aircraft to its fleet between 2029 and 2034, consisting of 50 firm and 25 option orders within this scope.

In terms of engine procurement, Turkish Airlines is continuing negotiations with manufacturers Rolls-Royce and GE Aerospace. Within the scope of this strategic acquisition, negotiations between Turkish Airlines and Boeing regarding the purchase of a total of 150 aircraft, consisting of 100 firm and 50 option orders for the 737-8/10 MAX models have been completed. Subject to the successful conclusion of ongoing discussions with engine manufacturer CFM International, orders for the 737-8/10 MAX aircraft will be placed.

This agreement stands as a strong indicator of both the strategic partnership between Türkiye and the United States, as well as the long-standing cooperation between Turkish Airlines and Boeing. It also underscores the airline’s determination to maintain industry leadership and enhance operational efficiency.

As part of its “Vision 2033” which underscores airline’s 100th anniversary, Turkish Airlines aims to expand its fleet beyond 800 aircraft, while increasing the proportion of next-generation aircraft to 90% by 2033 and to 100% by 2035. This will further strengthen operational efficiency while sustaining an average annual growth rate of 6%.

On this new order, Turkish Airlines Chairman of the Board and the Executive Committee, Prof. Ahmet Bolat stated: “This landmark agreement represents much more than a fleet growth. It is a reflection of our leadership in the industry as well as our dedication to innovation and operational excellence. The addition of these advanced Boeing aircraft to our fleet will not only enhance our operational capabilities but also become a significant element supporting Turkish Airlines’ 2033 Vision of expanding our fleet to 800 aircraft.

With this agreement, while advancing our close collaboration with the world’s leading aircraft manufacturers, we will continue to support the development of Türkiye’s aviation ecosystem. Moreover, by offering greater connectivity and more long-haul destinations, these aircraft will help attract more visitors to discover our country’s unique cultural heritage and natural beauty, thereby further strengthening Türkiye’s tourism sector. Turkish Airlines, with its unparalleled service approach and unrivalled flight network, will also continue to set the global benchmark in both efficiency and environmental responsibility.”

Boeing Commercial Airplanes President and CEO Stephanie Pope stated: “We are honored that Turkish Airlines has once again chosen the 787 Dreamliner and 737 MAX to power its future growth. As a proud partner to Türkiye and the Turkish aviation industry for 80 years, we look forward to continuing our support of Turkish Airlines as they expand operations and deliver exceptional experiences to their passengers."

Turkish Airlines operates more than 200 Boeing aircraft, among them 787-9, 777, 737 MAX, Next-Generation 737 and 777 Freighters. With this agreement, the carrier will soon introduce the largest member of the 787 family, the 787-10. Addition of these new Dreamliners will reduce operating costs with their 25% fuel efficiency advantage while increasing both passenger and cargo capacity, thus supporting high-demand routes particularly across the United States, Africa, Southeast Asia, and the Middle East.

While the expansion of the 787 Dreamliner fleet will strengthen Turkish Airlines’ long-haul capabilities, the 737 MAX aircraft will enhance efficiency and flexibility on short- and medium-haul routes. At the same time, their advanced cargo capacity and operational versatility will further reinforce Istanbul’s role as a strategic hub for both passenger and cargo transport.

Turkish Airlines continues to lead the way in the aviation industry, consistently delivering unparalleled service and unforgettable experiences above the clouds to its guests. This acquisition reinforces the airline’s commitment to offering travellers the most comfortable travel options available.

Turkish Airlines Inc. 
Directorate of Communications

ORDER - Turkish Airlines Orders up to 75 Boeing 787 Dreamliners, Commits to More 737 MAX Jets

SEATTLE, Sept. 25, 2025 /PRNewswire / -- Boeing [NYSE: BA] and Turkish Airlines announced today a firm order for up to 75 787 Dreamliners, the flag carrier's largest ever Boeing widebody purchase. The deal includes 35 of the 787-9 model, 15 of the larger 787-10, and options for 25 787 Dreamliners to grow and modernize the airline's fleet. The new order will support more than 123,000 jobs across the U.S.

The airline also announced its intent to purchase up to 150 more 737 MAX airplanes, which will be its largest Boeing single-aisle order when finalized. The 787 and 737 MAX orders combined will double Turkish Airlines' Boeing fleet as the carrier expands its capacity and network.





Turkish Airlines orders up to 75 Boeing 787 Dreamliners, and commits to more 737 MAX jets.


"This landmark agreement represents much more than a fleet growth. It is a reflection of our leadership in the industry as well as our dedication to innovation and operational excellence," said Prof. Ahmet Bolat, Turkish Airlines Chairman of the Board and the Executive Committee. "The addition of these advanced Boeing aircraft to our fleet will not only enhance our operational capabilities but also become a significant element supporting Turkish Airlines' 2033 Vision of expanding our fleet to 800 aircraft."

Across a network that reaches the most countries of any airline in the world, Turkish Airlines operates more than 200 Boeing jets today, including the 787-9, 777, 737 MAX, Next-Generation 737 and 777 Freighter airplanes.

Adding the larger 787-10 to its future fleet will enable Turkish Airlines to benefit from additional passenger and cargo capacity while improving fuel efficiency on high-demand routes between Istanbul and destinations in the U.S., Africa, Southeast Asia and the Middle East.

The 787-10, like the 787-9, also offers superior passenger comfort with the largest windows of any widebody jet, air that is less dry and pressurized at a lower cabin altitude, and technology that senses and counters turbulence for a smoother ride.

"We are honored that Turkish Airlines has once again chosen the 787 Dreamliner and 737 MAX to power its future growth," said Stephanie Pope, president and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes.

Turkish Airlines is one of the global operators that have made the 787 a versatile component of their long-haul fleets. With more than 1,200 airplanes delivered, the 787 Dreamliner family serves about 500,000 passengers daily and connects the most countries of any widebody fleet.

Pope added, "As a proud partner to Türkiye and the Turkish aviation industry for 80 years, we look forward to continuing our support of Turkish Airlines as they expand operations and deliver exceptional experiences to their passengers."

For eight decades, Boeing has supported Türkiye's airline operators with commercial jets and services, as well as the government with defense platforms.

With offices in Ankara and Istanbul, Boeing has invested $2 billion in supply chain development, creating nearly 5,000 jobs in Türkiye. These investments foster growth in the local aerospace sector, promote innovation, and enhance the integration of Turkish industry into the global aerospace supply chain through its supplier development program.

A leading global aerospace company and top U.S. exporter, Boeing develops, manufactures and services commercial airplanes, defense products and space systems for customers in more than 150 countries. Our U.S. and global workforce and supplier base drive innovation, economic opportunity, sustainability and community impact. Boeing is committed to fostering a culture based on our core values of safety, quality and integrity.

 

ROUTES - TURKISH AIRLINES NS26 ASIA FREQUENCY INCREASES – 18SEP25

Turkish Airlines this week filed frequency increases on selected markets in South and East Asia, scheduled in Northern summer 2026 season. Planned service increase as of 18SEP25 includes the following.


Istanbul – Denpasar eff 30MAR26 Increase from 7 to 10 weekly, additional flights by 787-9
TK066 IST0125 – 1915DPS 359 D
TK310 IST0210 – 2000DPS 789 146

TK067 DPS2055 – 0450+1IST 359 D
TK311 DPS2150 – 0545+1IST 789 146

Istanbul – Karachi eff 01APR26 Increase from 7 to 10 weekly, additional flights by 737 MAX 8
TK718 IST0025 – 0810KHI 7M8 357
TK708 IST2110 – 0420+1KHI 330 D

TK709 KHI0550 – 0945IST 330 D
TK719 KHI0910 – 1310IST 7M8 357

Istanbul – Singapore eff 29MAR26 Nonstop terminator service increases from 11 to 14 weekly (Overall increases from 14 to 17 weekly)
TK054 IST0150 – 1755SIN 789 D
TK258 IST1550 – 0740+1SIN 359 257
TK168 IST1650 – 0835+1SIN 359 257
TK208 IST1650 – 0840+1SIN 359 x257

TK169 SIN0525 – 115IST 359 247
TK259 SIN0920 – 1540IST 359 136
TK209 SIN1020 – 1640IST 359 x136
TK055 SIN2305 – 0515+1IST 789 D

Istanbul – Tokyo Narita eff 30MAR26 Increase from 7 to 10 weekly, 787-9
TK300 IST0205 – 1910NRT 789 146
TK050 IST1550 – 0855+1NRT 789 D

TK051 NRT1025 – 1740IST 789 D
TK301 NRT2125 – 0440+1IST 789 146

Separately, the airline’s latest adjustment has removed planned 6th weekly Istanbul – Kuala Lumpur – Sydney flight from 10JUL26. This update first appeared on AeroRoutes’ social media accounts on X, Threads and BlueSky at 1039GMT 18SEP25.

FLEET - TURKISH AIRLINES / A350-900 / F-WZGV msn 725

 Photo: Alain Charpentier

FLEET - Turkish Airlines mulls modified A350-1000s on Australian ops

 
Turkish Airlines (TK, Istanbul Airport) will modify up to five A350-1000s to fly non-stop to Australia and beyond, CEO Bilal Eksi recently told Aviation Week. The aircraft could have up to 60 business class seats, reducing overall weight and allowing it to fly further, he said, adding that flights to New Zealand are on the cards, albeit not until at least 2026.

Turkish Airlines commenced flights to Australia this year. Thrice weekly flights to Melbourne Tullamarine use A350-900 stock and fly via Singapore Changi for refuelling, while 4x weekly services to Sydney Kingsford Smith use the same aircraft type and stopover at Kuala Lumpur International, also for refuelling.

Eksi says his existing B787-9s can fly nonstop between Istanbul and Melbourne but doing so requires operating with a suboptimal load. Instead, he says Turkish will maintain the Southeast Asian stopovers while awaiting the A350-1000s. Turkish Airlines has 15 on order, and deliveries are due to start in 2025.

The planned premium-seat-heavy configuration on the A350-1000 subset cuts the aircraft's overall weight while keeping revenues high enough to make the nonstop flights economically viable. The bulk of the -1000 fleet will have fewer business-class seats but be deployed onto shorter routes.

Eksi said that once the nonstop services to Sydney and Melbourne are in place, Auckland could be next. The arrival of the A350-1000 will also open options in South America, he added. Turkish Airlines currently flies to São Paulo Guarulhos and Buenos Aires Ministro Pistarini and is starting services to Santiago de Chile mid-December. However, like the Australian services, the flights to Chile and Argentina require a refuelling stop, in this case São Paulo.

CH Aviation

FLEET ORDER - Turkish Airlines to order an additional 220 Airbus aircra

Türkiye’s national carrier, Turkish Airlines, will expand its fleet with an order for 220 Airbus aircraft, made up of 150 Airbus’ best-selling A321s and 70 of the world’s most modern and efficient A350 widebody aircraft (50 A350-900s, 15 A350-1000s and 5 A350F freighters). This follows two orders from the airline for 10 A350-900s in September and four A350-900s in July 2023. This latest order will take Turkish Airlines’ total orderbook for Airbus aircraft to 504, of which 212 are already delivered.

“On the new order, Turkish Airlines Chairman of the Board and the Executive Committee, Prof. Dr. Ahmet Bolat stated: “This landmark order is more than an expansion; it’s a testament to our dedication to innovation, operational excellence, and a sustainable future. The addition of these advanced Airbus aircraft to our fleet will not only enhance our operational capabilities but also significantly contribute to our environmental goals. This investment is a crucial milestone in the further evolution of Türkiye’s aviation industry. By modernising our fleet with more efficient and environmentally friendly aircraft, we are reinforcing our leading position in global aviation and contributing to the nation’s prominence as an aviation hub.”

"This order for the latest generation aircraft is a demonstration of the bold vision by Turkish Airlines. The A350-900, A350-1000, A350F and A321 will all be flagship aircraft in their respective category and efficiency drivers to shape the airline’s future and sustainable expansion, with more range, less fuel, noise and emissions and best cabin in class," says Christian Scherer, Airbus Chief Commercial Officer and Head of International. “The opening into the A350-1000 and the A350F highlights the cross-model value of the A350 family and reinforces our long-lasting partnership with Turkish Airlines and Türkiye’s aviation sector. We are proud to accompany Türkiye's connection to the world with our state-of-the-art aircraft."

The A321neo is the largest aircraft in Airbus’ A320neo Family, offering unparalleled range and performance. By incorporating new generation engines and Sharklets, the A321neo brings a 50% noise reduction and more than 20% fuel savings and CO₂ reduction compared to previous generation single-aisle aircraft. Having the widest single-aisle cabin in the sky, the aircraft is the perfect contender for maximising comfort.

To date over 5,600 A321neos have been ordered by more than 100 customers across the globe.

The A350 is the world’s most modern and efficient widebody aircraft and the long range leader in the 300-410 seater category, flying efficiently on any sector from short-haul to ultra-long-haul routes up to 9,700nm. Its clean sheet design includes state-of-the-art technologies, aerodynamics, lightweight materials and latest generation engines that together deliver 25% advantage in fuel burn, operating costs and CO₂ emissions, as well as 50% noise reduction compared to previous generation competitor aircraft. This makes the aircraft a good neighbour and global citizen wherever it flies.

The A350 Family has two versions: the A350-900, and the longer fuselage A350-1000, both offering an ultimate passenger experience even on the longest of flights. Its innovative design delivers a true feeling of spaciousness, with wide seats, high ceilings and alluring ambient lighting.

By end November 2023, the A350 Family has won 1,072 orders from 57 leading customers from all around the globe.

The A350F features the largest main deck cargo door and a fuselage length optimised for cargo operations. Over 70% of the airframe is made of advanced materials, which together with efficient Rolls-Royce engines generate an advantage of at least 20% lower fuel burn and CO₂ emission over its current closest competitor.

With this latest endorsement by Turkish Airlines the A350F orderbook stands at 50 orders from nine customers following its launch at Dubai Airshow two years ago.

 

SPECIAL COLORS - Turkish Airlines unveils Turkey's centenary livery Turkish Airlines has unveiled a special livery to celebrate Turkey's centenary on an Airbus A321

TC-JRF

Turkish Airlines
 

FLEET - Turkish Airlines places order for ten additional Airbus A350-900

Türkiye’s national flag carrier, Turkish Airlines, has announced a new order for 10 additional A350-900 aircraft, taking its total for the type to 40. This latest agreement is in addition to one announced in August for four A350-900s. Turkish Airlines already operates a fleet of 14 A350-900s.

Christian Scherer, Airbus Chief Commercial Officer and Head of Airbus International, said, “We are delighted that Turkish Airlines has decided to further enlarge its fleet with the purchase of 10 more A350-900 aircraft. With greater range capability, passenger capacity and comfort, the A350 is the perfect platform to connect Istanbul to the world. This repeat order demonstrates the confidence for our unique new generation aircraft that offers airlines unbeatable economics and efficiency. We are proud to keep expanding our long-lasting partnership with Turkish Airlines and Türkiye’s aviation sector overall.”

At the end of July, the A350 had won over 1,000 orders from leading carriers from around the globe. The A350 is the world’s most modern and efficient widebody aircraft and the long range leader in the 300-410 seater category. Its clean sheet design includes state-of-the-art technologies, aerodynamics, lightweight materials and new engines that together deliver 25 percent advantage in fuel burn, operating costs and CO2 emissions, as well as 50 percent noise footprint reduction compared to previous generation competitor aircraft.

Turkish Airlines took delivery of one A350-900, serial 596.

 Alain Charpentier - TLS

Turkish Airlines bemoans B787 delays; considers E2s

Turkish Airlines (TK, Istanbul New) is severely constrained in its growth ambitions by the lack of available narrow- and widebody next-generation aircraft and could add as many as 70 new aircraft in 2023, Chairman Ahmet Bolat told aviation journalist Kurt Hofmann.

"I’m planning to open new routes, but missing widebodies. If I can find them right now, we could easily buy 20 more next-generation widebody aircraft - B787s or A350s - ready to come in 2023," Bolat said.

The carrier had hoped that once the FAA had recertified B787 production, deliveries of the carrier's ten remaining firm-ordered B787-9s (of which eight are already built) would have progressed smoothly. Bolat said that this hope had proven misplaced, and "nobody knows when Boeing delivers[sic] our B787s". The ch-aviation fleets advanced module shows that Turkish Airlines currently operates fifteen B787-9s.

To compensate for the B787s' absence, the airline scooped six A350-900s originally assigned for Aeroflot (SU, Moscow Sheremetyevo) earlier this year. Four of them have already been delivered, with the other two due to follow by year-end. In addition to these aircraft and eleven A350-900s already in Turkish Airlines' fleet, the carrier has a further 13 on order from Airbus.

Bolat said the airline is looking for more white-tail widebodies as it is the only way to rapidly add more capacity.

Aside from a widebody deficit, Turkish is also struggling with a shortage of narrowbody aircraft. Bolat said the airline holding group will be able to absorb up to 50 next-generation aircraft - either A320neo Family or B737 MAX - in 2023. The new units will be split evenly between the mainline carrier and AnadoluJet division.

"I have the routes where we would need all these aircraft and also, it gives us advantages to replace my old fleet - about half of the new aircraft would be replacements of older aircraft," Bolat explained.

Turkish Airlines' and AnadoluJet's narrowbody fleet currently comprises six A319-100s, eleven A320-200s, a single A320-200N, sixty-six A321-200s, thirty-six A321-200NX, seventy-nine B737-800s, twenty-seven B737-8s, and five B737-9s.

Bolat added that the carrier is also in talks with Embraer about adding its first regional jets. However, any such step would be contingent on the manufacturer offering extensive maintenance support for a relatively small sub-fleet.

"Bring the aircraft, the pilots, bring power-by-the-hour maintenance, then I'll take the aircraft. Such an offer I would consider," he mused.

ch aviation

Turkish Airlines - A330-303 - MSN 1704 - TC-LND

 Steven Picalausa