Turkish Airlines confirmed an order for 225 Boeing planes, including 75 Dreamliners and 150 Boeing 737 MAX aircraft. The deal, years in the making, was sealed after talks between Presidents Erdogan and Trump. Deliveries are scheduled for 2029–2034.
Why It Matters
The deal strengthens Boeing at a time of fierce competition with Airbus and bolsters Turkey’s aviation ambitions. For Ankara, it also deepens economic and political ties with Washington at a moment of strained relations.
Turkish Airlines: Framed the purchase as central to its plan to expand its fleet to 800+ aircraft by 2033, aiming to become one of the world’s top carriers.
U.S. Government: Trump presented the order as proof of improved U.S.-Turkey ties and as a win for American manufacturing jobs.
Boeing: Welcomed the order, which comes as the company works to recover from safety and delivery setbacks.
Airbus: While not commenting publicly, the European rival remains part of Turkey’s fleet expansion, having secured a 355-plane order in 2023.
Turkish Economy: Business leaders highlighted the deal as a sign of Turkey’s confidence in long-term growth despite current economic volatility.
Investors: Turkish Airlines’ shares edged higher on news of the purchase, showing cautious optimism.
Future Scenario
If the plan goes smoothly, Turkish Airlines will become one of the largest carriers worldwide. But the deal depends on engine agreements and political stability between Ankara and Washington. Any renewed tensions over sanctions, defense, or Russia could complicate deliveries.
With information from Reuters.