Aircraft Orders & Deliveries
Turkish Airlines Orders 225 Boeing Jets in Major Fleet Expansion
Turkish Airlines orders up to 225 Boeing aircraft to modernize fleet by 2035, supporting growth and Istanbul’s global aviation hub status.
Turkish Airlines has announced one of its most significant fleet expansion deals, confirming orders for up to 225 Boeing aircraft as part of its ambitious strategy to modernize its entire fleet by 2035. The announcement, made on September 26, 2025, represents a pivotal moment for both the Turkish flag carrier and Boeing, coming amid complex geopolitical negotiations between Turkey and the United States. The deal includes 75 Boeing 787 Dreamliners and 150 Boeing 737 MAX aircraft, with deliveries scheduled to begin in 2029, though final orders remain contingent on successful engine procurement negotiations with multiple suppliers including Rolls-Royce, GE Aerospace, and CFM International.
This order is not only significant for Turkish Airlines’ growth but also for Boeing’s recovery efforts, as the manufacturer continues to navigate supply chain disruptions and competitive pressures. The agreement underscores the evolving landscape of global aviation, where fleet renewal, operational efficiency, and international relations are deeply intertwined.
Turkish Airlines’ decision to order 225 Boeing aircraft is the culmination of an aggressive expansion strategy that has transformed the carrier from a regional operator into one of the world’s largest airlines. As of September 2025, Turkish Airlines operates a fleet of 387 Airbus and Boeing aircraft, a dramatic increase from just 65 aircraft in 2003. This rapid growth has been central to the airline’s vision of establishing Istanbul as a global aviation hub, leveraging Turkey’s geographic position bridging Europe and Asia.
The airline’s “2033 Strategy” aims to expand the fleet to 813 aircraft by its 100th anniversary, nearly doubling its current size. This plan is part of a broader transformation, outlined in the “From Boutique to the Top” strategy, that targets over 170 million passengers by 2033, up from 83.4 million in 2023. The systematic and sustained fleet modernization over the past two decades has seen the airline hit major milestones: its 100th aircraft in 2006, 200th in 2012, 300th in 2016, and 400th in 2023.
This Boeing order follows a December 2023 announcement of up to 355 Airbus aircraft, including firm orders for 230 jets and options for an additional 125. This approach reflects Turkish Airlines’ commitment to maintaining flexibility and securing favorable terms by balancing orders between both major manufacturers.
The September 26, 2025 announcement confirmed Turkish Airlines’ board approval for a comprehensive Boeing order in two main components. The first involves 75 Boeing 787 Dreamliners (50 firm and 25 options for B787-9 and B787-10 models), with deliveries planned between 2029 and 2034. These wide-body jets will significantly enhance Turkish Airlines’ long-haul capabilities.
The second component is for 150 Boeing 737 MAX aircraft (100 firm and 50 options for 737-8 and 737-10 variants), addressing the need for efficient regional and medium-haul capacity. However, the 737 MAX orders depend on successful negotiations with CFM International, while the 787s require engine deals with Rolls-Royce and GE Aerospace.
While the total value of the order has not been disclosed, industry estimates based on list prices suggest a multibillion-dollar commitment, though airlines often negotiate substantial discounts for large orders. The phased delivery schedule allows Turkish Airlines to integrate the new aircraft gradually, aligning with operational and financial planning. “The current Boeing order must be understood within the context of Turkish Airlines’ broader fleet strategy, which has included significant orders from both major aircraft manufacturers.”
Turkish Airlines’ financial performance has been robust, supporting such large-scale capital investments. In 2024, the airline reported a net profit of 113.3 billion Turkish lira (about $2.95 billion), although the first quarter of 2025 saw a net loss of approximately $47 million. Despite this volatility, revenue growth remains strong, with first-quarter 2025 revenue up 20% year-on-year and second-quarter revenue rising 26.5% to 231.3 billion lira.
Boeing, meanwhile, has faced significant challenges, including an $11.8 billion loss in 2024 and a 14.5% revenue decline. The Turkish Airlines order thus provides Boeing with a crucial boost and signals renewed confidence in its products.
The order’s structure, with firm commitments and options, gives Turkish Airlines flexibility to scale its fleet based on market conditions while securing production slots during high demand periods. The ongoing engine negotiations are critical, as powerplant selection impacts both acquisition costs and long-term operational efficiency.
The timing of the Turkish Airlines announcement, just after a meeting between President Erdogan and U.S. President Trump, highlights the interplay between commercial aviation deals and international diplomacy. The order is linked to broader discussions on defense cooperation and potential sanctions relief, particularly following Turkey’s exclusion from the F-35 program due to its purchase of Russian defense systems.
During these discussions, U.S. officials suggested that Turkey might reduce purchases of Russian oil in exchange for sanctions relief and renewed defense cooperation. Turkish Airlines’ chairman also indicated that the Boeing deal was closely tied to these diplomatic efforts, though final contract details remain under negotiation.
Turkey’s role as a major importer of Russian fossil fuels and its efforts to secure U.S. approval for local production of F-35 components further complicate the geopolitical landscape. The aircraft order thus serves as both a commercial and diplomatic lever in ongoing U.S.-Turkey relations.
“The announcement of Turkish Airlines’ Boeing order carries significant geopolitical implications, coming just one day after Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump at the White House.”
The Turkish Airlines Boeing order comes amid fierce competition between Boeing and Airbus, global supply chain constraints, and shifting airline fleet strategies. Turkish Airlines’ dual-manufacturer procurement reflects a broader trend toward diversification and risk management.
In December 2023, Turkish Airlines committed to up to 355 Airbus aircraft, including 150 A321neos and 70 A350s. This, combined with the Boeing order, positions Turkish Airlines as a key customer for both companies. Boeing’s 737 MAX program, despite previous setbacks, continues to see strong demand, though certification for certain variants like the MAX 10 remains pending. The 787 Dreamliner program has also faced production and quality control challenges, impacting delivery schedules. Turkish Airlines’ phased delivery plan and ongoing engine negotiations reflect the complexities of modern fleet expansion in a constrained supply environment.
The aircraft in Turkish Airlines’ order are chosen for their advanced technology, fuel efficiency, and operational flexibility. The 787-9 and 787-10 offer long-range capability with improved fuel consumption and passenger comfort, while the 737-8 and 737-10 serve as backbone aircraft for regional and medium-haul routes.
Turkish Airlines already operates both 787-9s and 737-8s, which simplifies pilot training and maintenance integration. The choice of engines for the 787s, between Rolls-Royce and GE, will affect long-term costs, reliability, and maintenance contracts. For the 737 MAX, CFM International’s LEAP-1B is the sole engine option, making negotiations on pricing and support particularly important.
The extended delivery timeline enables Turkish Airlines to phase in new aircraft as older models retire, supporting its goal of an all-new-generation fleet by 2035. This approach allows for continuous operational improvement and technological upgrades.
“The engine selection process for the 787 aircraft involves complex negotiations with both Rolls-Royce and GE Aerospace, reflecting the different characteristics and operating economics of their respective offerings.”
The Boeing order is central to Turkish Airlines’ vision of Istanbul as a premier global aviation hub. Istanbul Airport is now the world’s most connected, handling over 80 million passengers in 2024 and leading European hub rankings for four consecutive years.
Turkish Airlines’ extensive network, 352 destinations in 131 countries, has been instrumental in this achievement. The new aircraft will enable further network growth, increased route frequencies, and capacity expansion, supporting the target of 170 million annual passengers by 2033.
The airline’s hub-and-spoke model, supported by the new fleet, is designed to maximize connectivity and operational efficiency, reinforcing Istanbul’s role as a critical node in global aviation.
Turkish Airlines’ agreement to order up to 225 Boeing aircraft is a landmark event in global aviation, reflecting the airline’s ambitious growth strategy and the broader dynamics of international business and diplomacy. The deal’s structure, with both firm orders and options, provides flexibility for future market conditions while supporting Boeing’s recovery efforts. The success of this order will depend on resolving engine negotiations, managing supply chain challenges, and navigating the evolving geopolitical landscape. As Turkish Airlines aims to operate an all-new-generation fleet by 2035 and cement Istanbul’s status as a leading global hub, this order represents a bold step toward realizing its long-term vision.
Question: What types of aircraft are included in Turkish Airlines’ Boeing order? Question: When will the new Boeing aircraft be delivered to Turkish Airlines? Question: What is the significance of the engine negotiations for this order? Question: How does this order fit into Turkish Airlines’ long-term strategy? Question: What are the geopolitical implications of the order?
Turkish Airlines Finalizes Major Boeing Aircraft Order in Strategic Fleet Expansion Worth Billions
Strategic Fleet Modernization and Growth Objectives
Details of the Boeing Aircraft Order
Financial Implications and Market Context
Geopolitical Dimensions and US-Turkey Relations
Industry Context and Competitive Landscape
Technical and Operational Considerations
Strategic Hub Development and Network Expansion
Conclusion
FAQ
Answer: The order includes 75 Boeing 787 Dreamliners (50 firm, 25 options) and 150 Boeing 737 MAX aircraft (100 firm, 50 options), covering both B787-9/B787-10 and 737-8/737-10 variants.
Answer: Deliveries for the Boeing 787s are scheduled between 2029 and 2034. The 737 MAX delivery timeline is contingent on successful engine negotiations and production capacity.
Answer: Engine negotiations are critical because they affect acquisition costs, operational efficiency, and maintenance expenses. The 737 MAX relies on CFM International engines, while the 787s may be powered by either Rolls-Royce or GE engines.
Answer: The order supports Turkish Airlines’ goal of operating an all-new-generation fleet by 2035 and expanding its network to 813 aircraft and 170 million passengers annually by 2033.
Answer: The order is closely tied to broader U.S.-Turkey relations, including discussions on defense cooperation, sanctions relief, and Turkey’s role in regional energy markets.
Sources
Photo Credit: Turkish Airlines – Montage
Aircraft Orders & Deliveries
EgyptAir Receives First Airbus A350-900 to Modernize Fleet
EgyptAir accepts its first Airbus A350-900, starting a fleet overhaul with 16 aircraft to expand long-haul routes and improve efficiency.
This article is based on an official press release from Airbus and additional fleet data.
EgyptAir has officially taken delivery of its first Airbus A350-900, registered as SU-GGE, marking a significant milestone in the carrier’s modernization strategy. The handover, which took place on February 9, 2026, positions the Cairo-based airline as the first operator of the A350-900 in North Africa.
According to an official press release from Airbus, this aircraft is the first of 16 A350-900s ordered by the Egyptian flag carrier. The delivery underscores EgyptAir’s commitment to phasing out older wide-body jets while expanding its long-haul network capabilities to new destinations in North America and Asia.
The arrival of the A350-900 represents a pivotal shift in EgyptAir’s long-haul operations. The airline originally signed for 10 aircraft during the Dubai Airshow in November 2023, later expanding the commitment with a top-up order for six additional units. These new airframes are intended to replace the carrier’s aging Boeing 777-300ER fleet, offering improved operating economics and passenger comfort.
In a statement regarding the initial order, Yehia Zakaria, EgyptAir Holding Chairman and CEO, highlighted the flagship status of the new type:
“The A350-900 will be our flagship aircraft… adding the world’s most modern and efficient widebody aircraft to our fleet will be instrumental in expanding our offering.”
Christian Scherer, Chief Commercial Officer at Airbus, noted the economic advantages the aircraft brings to the airline’s network:
“The A350 is the one and only aircraft enabling EgyptAir to open up its network with benchmark economic efficiency, not to mention passenger comfort.”
EgyptAir has outlined a phased entry-into-service plan for the new fleet. Initially, the aircraft will be deployed on trunk routes to London and Paris to facilitate crew familiarization. Following this integration period, the airline plans to leverage the A350’s 9,700 nautical mile range to launch non-stop services to the U.S. West Coast and key Asian markets, including Shanghai, Beijing, and Tokyo.
The new A350-900 features a two-class configuration designed to maximize capacity while introducing updated premium amenities. According to fleet data, the aircraft accommodates a total of 340 passengers. Technological upgrades are a focal point of the new cabin. The aircraft is equipped with Panasonic Avionics’ Astrova in-flight entertainment system, providing 4K OLED screens and high-fidelity audio. Additionally, passengers across all classes will have access to USB-C fast charging ports and high-speed Wi-Fi connectivity.
The transition to the A350-900 aligns with broader industry sustainability goals. Powered by two Rolls-Royce Trent XWB engines, the aircraft is reported to burn 25% less fuel compared to the previous generation aircraft it replaces. This efficiency gain corresponds to a 25% reduction in CO2 emissions.
Furthermore, the A350 is recognized as the quietest aircraft in its class, possessing a noise footprint 50% smaller than older jets, a critical factor for operations at noise-sensitive airports in Europe and North America.
EgyptAir’s delivery secures its position as the sole active operator of the A350-900 in the North African region, a status solidified by the shifting strategies of its neighbors. While other carriers in the region had previously expressed interest in the type, market dynamics have led to cancellations and delays.
For instance, Air Algérie cancelled its order for A350-1000s in early 2025, opting instead for Airbus A330-900neos. Similarly, Tunisair cancelled its A350 commitments in 2013. Other regional orders, such as those from Libyan carriers Afriqiyah Airways and Libyan Airlines, remain stalled due to long-standing instability. Consequently, EgyptAir currently faces no direct regional competition operating this specific airframe, potentially offering it a product advantage on competitive routes connecting Africa to Europe and the Americas.
Sources:
EgyptAir Accepts Delivery of First Airbus A350-900, Initiating Major Fleet Overhaul
Fleet Modernization and Strategic Expansion
Operational Deployment
Cabin Configuration and Passenger Experience
Environmental Performance
AirPro News Analysis: Regional Market Context
Airbus Press Release
Photo Credit: Airbus
Aircraft Orders & Deliveries
India to Purchase $80B Boeing Aircraft in $500B US Trade Deal
India plans to buy up to $80 billion in Boeing aircraft within a $500 billion trade pact with the US, including tariff reductions and energy diversification.
This article summarizes reporting by CNBC and Priyanka Salve, alongside official government statements and AirPro News analysis.
In a landmark development for global aviation and trade, India has announced plans to purchase up to $80 billion in Boeing aircraft as part of a broader strategic partnership with the United States. According to reporting by CNBC, India’s Minister of Commerce and Industry, Piyush Goyal, confirmed that New Delhi expects to sign a formal trade deal with the U.S. in March 2026.
The aviation commitment is the centerpiece of a massive $500 billion trade pact intended to span the next five years. While the headline figure for Boeing jets stands between $70 billion and $80 billion, officials indicate that the total value of the aviation sector deal, including engines, MRO services, could exceed $100 billion.
This agreement signals a profound shift in India’s geopolitical and economic strategy, trading market access and energy realignment for relief from punitive U.S. tariffs.
The scale of the reported aircraft purchase underscores India’s position as the fastest-growing aviation market in the world. According to details shared by Minister Goyal and summarized by CNBC, the deal allocates a specific $70–$80 billion tranche for Boeing airframes.
Industry observers note that this figure likely aggregates the value of deliveries from existing record-breaking orders alongside new commitments. Air India, owned by the Tata Group, placed a historic order in 2023 for 470 aircraft (split between Boeing and Airbus) and finalized an additional order for 30 Boeing 737 MAX jets in January 2026. Similarly, Akasa Air holds a substantial order book extending through 2032.
Boeing executives have previously confirmed plans to deliver approximately two aircraft per month to Indian carriers to meet surging travel demand. The inclusion of engines and aftermarket services pushes the total aviation package over the $100 billion mark, cementing the U.S. aerospace giant’s foothold in South Asia.
Contextualizing the Order Book: While the $80 billion figure is staggering, we believe it is crucial to interpret this as a “delivery value” commitment over the five-year pact rather than solely a new purchase agreement for unannounced jets. At current list prices (after standard discounts), $80 billion represents roughly 600 to 800 narrowbody jets or a significant mix of widebodies. Given Boeing’s current backlog constraints, fulfilling $80 billion in entirely new orders within five years would be logistically improbable. It is more likely that the Indian government is guaranteeing the execution and payment of the massive backlogs already held by Air India, Akasa, and potentially SpiceJet, framing these commercial milestones as diplomatic victories. Beyond aviation, the trade deal outlines a reciprocal reduction in trade barriers. The United States has agreed to slash tariffs on Indian imports from 50% to 18%, a move expected to boost Indian exporters. In exchange, India has committed to purchasing $500 billion in American goods and services over five years.
A critical component of the negotiations involves India’s energy procurement. Following the invasion of Ukraine, India became a primary consumer of discounted Russian crude. However, the new trade framework reportedly includes provisions for India to shift away from Russian energy.
U.S. President Donald Trump explicitly claimed that Prime Minister Narendra Modi agreed to stop buying Russian oil. However, the Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has maintained a more nuanced public stance. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal emphasized that energy security remains the nation’s “supreme priority,” noting that India would diversify based on commercial viability. This includes potential resumption of imports from Venezuela and increased purchases from the United States.
“Energy security is the supreme priority [for India’s 1.4 billion citizens].”
— Randhir Jaiswal, MEA Spokesperson (via press briefing)
The trade deal has triggered sharp criticism within India. The opposition Congress party has characterized the agreement as a surrender of sovereignty, particularly regarding the pressure to alter energy partners and lower agricultural tariffs.
Opposition leaders Mallikarjun Kharge and Jairam Ramesh have voiced concerns that the influx of U.S. agricultural products could harm local farmers, warning of potential protests similar to those seen in 2021. Minister Goyal has defended the pact, asserting that it protects sensitive sectors like dairy and agriculture while securing essential technology and energy partnerships.
When will the deal be signed? Is the $80 billion for new planes only? What does the U.S. offer in return? Will India stop buying Russian oil?
Breakdown of the $100 Billion Aviation Commitment
Commercial Implications
AirPro News Analysis
The Broader Strategic Trade Pact
The “Russian Oil” Pivot
Domestic Opposition and Political Fallout
Frequently Asked Questions
According to Minister Piyush Goyal, the formal trade agreement is scheduled to be signed in March 2026, following a joint statement expected in early February.
The figure likely represents a mix of new commitments and the value of deliveries from existing massive orders (like Air India’s 2023 deal) scheduled for the next five years.
The U.S. has agreed to reduce tariffs on Indian goods from 50% to 18%, significantly improving market access for Indian exporters.
While the U.S. President claims an agreement is in place, Indian officials state they are diversifying energy sources based on commercial viability and security, without explicitly confirming a total ban.
Sources
Photo Credit: Daily Shipping Times
Aircraft Orders & Deliveries
CDB Aviation Delivers Three Boeing 737-8 Jets to WestJet in 2026
CDB Aviation delivers three Boeing 737-8 aircraft to WestJet, increasing leased jets to 13 and supporting fleet growth for summer 2026.
This article is based on an official press release from CDB Aviation.
On February 5, 2026, CDB Aviation announced the successful delivery of three Boeing 737-8 aircraft to WestJet. According to the official press release from the Irish subsidiary of China Development Bank Financial Leasing Co., Ltd., these deliveries mark the completion of a lease agreement originally announced in January 2024. The addition of these aircraft brings the total number of CDB Aviation-leased jets in the WestJet fleet to 13, reinforcing a strategic partnership that began in 2020.
The newly delivered aircraft are part of WestJet’s broader strategy to modernize its fleet and expand its network capacity for the 2026 summer schedule. By securing these airframes directly from CDB Aviation’s existing order book, WestJet has bypassed some of the manufacturing delays currently affecting the global aviation supply-chain. The airline continues to hold the largest narrowbody order book of any Canadian carrier.
The three Boeing 737-8s (commonly referred to as the MAX 8) were delivered on February 5, 2026. These aircraft were leased directly from CDB Aviation’s order book with Boeing, a mechanism that allows airlines to access capacity more quickly than through direct manufacturer orders in a constrained market.
According to data associated with the delivery, WestJet’s 737-8 fleet is typically configured to seat 174 passengers, split between 12 Premium seats and 162 Economy seats. The aircraft are equipped with satellite-supported Wi-Fi and in-seat power, aligning with the carrier’s focus on passenger connectivity. The 737-8 is powered by CFM LEAP-1B engines, which deliver approximately 15% greater fuel efficiency and a 40% reduction in noise footprint compared to the previous generation 737-800NG.
Both companies highlighted the strength of their ongoing relationship. Luís da Silva, Head of Commercial, Americas at CDB Aviation, emphasized the history between the two entities in a statement included in the release:
“We’ve built a strong partnership with the WestJet team since the inaugural transaction between our companies in 2020. To date, we have financed and leased a total of 13 737-8 aircraft which support this strong and growing Canadian airline.”
Jennifer Bue, Senior Vice President and Treasurer at WestJet, also commented on the significance of the delivery for the airline’s growth trajectory:
“CDB Aviation is a valued partner of WestJet. The relationship enables WestJet to continue our momentum driving our growth strategy.”
This delivery comes at a critical time for WestJet as the airline approaches a total fleet size of nearly 200 aircraft, including its subsidiaries. The additional capacity is slated to support an aggressive network expansion, including new international connections such as Toronto to Medellín, Colombia, and increased frequencies to sun destinations. The Role of Lessors in a Constrained Supply Chain
The delivery of these three aircraft highlights a vital trend in the 2026 aviation market: the increasing reliance on lessors to bridge the gap caused by OEM production delays. While manufacturers work to clear backlogs, lessors like CDB Aviation, who hold significant positions in the delivery queue, are becoming essential partners for airlines needing immediate lift. For WestJet, leasing directly from CDB’s order book allows them to circumvent the long wait times associated with direct orders, ensuring they can capitalize on the projected travel demand for the summer 2026 season. This transaction underscores that in the current climate, access to delivery slots is just as valuable as capital.
How many aircraft does CDB Aviation lease to WestJet? What is the primary benefit of the Boeing 737-8 for WestJet? When was this deal originally agreed upon?
CDB Aviation Delivers Three Boeing 737-8 Aircraft to WestJet
Transaction Details and Fleet Configuration
Aircraft Specifications
Executive Commentary
Strategic Implications for 2026
AirPro News analysis
Frequently Asked Questions
With the delivery of these three aircraft on February 5, 2026, CDB Aviation now leases a total of 13 Boeing 737-8 aircraft to WestJet.
The 737-8 offers significantly improved fuel efficiency (approximately 15% better than the 737NG) and a longer range (approx. 3,550 nm), allowing WestJet to operate routes like Western Canada to Europe or Toronto to South America more economically.
The lease agreement for these specific aircraft was originally announced on January 23, 2024.
Sources
Photo Credit: CDB Aviation
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