This article is based on an official press release from CFM International.

Pegasus Airlines Finalizes Deal for Up to 300 CFM LEAP-1B Engines

Pegasus Airlines, a leading low-cost carrier based in Türkiye, has officially finalized a major agreement with CFM International to purchase up to 300 LEAP-1B engines. The deal, announced on December 18, 2025, is designed to power the airline’s future fleet of Boeing 737-10 aircraft. This agreement encompasses spare engines and a comprehensive long-term services contract, securing maintenance support for the carrier’s expanding operations.

The engine order follows a significant fleet expansion strategy initiated by Pegasus in December 2024, when the Airlines placed an order for up to 200 Boeing 737 MAX aircraft. According to the press release, deliveries for the new fleet are scheduled to commence in 2028. This move marks a pivotal moment for Pegasus as it diversifies its fleet composition and reinforces its sustainability targets through advanced propulsion technology.

Agreement Details and Scope

The contract between Pegasus Airlines and CFM International, a 50/50 joint venture between GE Aerospace and Safran Aircraft Engines, covers the propulsion needs for the airline’s incoming Boeing 737-10s. The 737-10 is the largest variant of the MAX family, capable of seating up to 230 passengers. Because the Boeing 737 MAX family is exclusively powered by the LEAP-1B engine, this agreement was a necessary step to operationalize the airframes ordered the previous year.

While the official press release did not disclose the specific financial value of the transaction, industry data regarding comparable deals suggests a significant investment. Based on list prices observed in similar orders, such as Akasa Air’s 2024 procurement, a deal for 300 engines could be valued at approximately $5 billion, though airlines typically negotiate substantial discounts for large-volume orders.

Gaël Méheust, President and CEO of CFM International, highlighted the strategic importance of the partnership in a statement:

“We believe that the LEAP-powered 737 MAX 10 will be an invaluable asset in Pegasus’ continuing expansion, providing longer range, lower emissions, better fuel efficiency, and unequalled reliability.”

Sustainability and Technical Performance

A primary driver behind the selection of the LEAP-1B engine is Pegasus Airlines’ commitment to environmental sustainability. The carrier has set ambitious goals to reduce carbon emissions by 2030 and achieve net-zero emissions by 2050. According to CFM International, the LEAP-1B engine delivers a 15% to 20% reduction in fuel consumption and CO2 emissions compared to previous-generation engines, such as the CFM56.

In addition to fuel efficiency, the engines feature carbon fiber composite fan blades and ceramic matrix composites (CMCs). These materials are lighter and more heat-resistant than traditional metal components, contributing to improved durability. The engine also offers a significantly reduced noise footprint, a critical operational requirement for carriers flying into noise-sensitive European airports.

Güliz Öztürk, CEO of Pegasus Airlines, emphasized the long-standing relationship between the two companies:

“Since we launched operations in 1990, CFM engines have played a major role in helping Pegasus build a reliable, efficient fleet… The lower emissions and higher fuel efficiency of LEAP-1B engines will significantly contribute to both our 2030 CO2 reduction target and the 2050 net-zero CO2 industry emissions goal.”

Pegasus Airlines has a history of early adoption with CFM products; the airline was the first in the world to introduce the LEAP-1A engine variant into commercial service on Airbus aircraft in July 2016.

Strategic Fleet Implications

AirPro News Analysis

This order represents a notable strategic pivot for Pegasus Airlines. In recent years, the carrier appeared to be transitioning toward an all-Airbus fleet, heavily relying on the A320neo and A321neo families while phasing out older Boeing 737-800NGs. The decision to reintegrate Boeing aircraft via the 737-10 order in late 2024, and now finalizing the associated engine order in late 2025, signals a return to a dual-fleet strategy.

By operating both Airbus and Boeing narrowbodies, Pegasus mitigates supply chain risks, an issue that has plagued the aviation industry recently with delivery delays from both manufacturers. Furthermore, maintaining relationships with both major OEMs (Original Equipment Manufacturers) allows the airline to leverage competitive pricing. The selection of the 737-10 also provides capacity growth, as it is the largest narrowbody in the MAX lineup, suitable for high-density routes connecting Europe and the Middle East.

Frequently Asked Questions

When will the new engines enter service?
Deliveries of the Boeing 737-10 aircraft powered by these LEAP-1B engines are scheduled to begin in 2028.

How many engines are included in the deal?
The agreement covers up to 300 LEAP-1B engines, which includes engines for the aircraft on order as well as spares.

Is this a new relationship for Pegasus?
No. Pegasus has been a CFM customer since 1990 and was the global launch customer for the LEAP-1A engine in 2016.

Why did Pegasus choose the LEAP-1B?
The Boeing 737 MAX family is exclusively powered by the CFM LEAP-1B engine; no other engine option is available for this aircraft type.

Sources

• CFM International
• Boeing