In a strategic move to take into account recent political changes, Turkish Airlines has decided to delay their historic order for up to 600 aircraft. Initially slated for summer 2023, the decision now awaits an additional two months, underscoring the significance of this future-defining step for the airline.
During a press conference at the IATA AGM in Istanbul, Chairman Ahmet Bolat expressed that “The election of the new government took longer than expected. We were very close to making a deal with one of the engine manufacturers. To be fair to the other manufacturer, we are going to delay a decision for around two months.” Rather than making a rushed announcement at the Paris Air Show, the airline will hold a separate event in Istanbul for the official reveal.
The order will likely be a mix from both Airbus and Boeing, with Bolat confirming that Turkish Airlines has been in talks with both giants. The airline’s plan includes 400 narrowbodies and 200 widebodies. The announcement will be a key event for the Turkish aerospace industry as it is expected to play a significant role in this order, although exact details remain under wraps.
A Glimpse at the Aircraft Composition and Regional Jets Delay
The widebody component of the order is anticipated to include around 25 new-generation long-range aircraft, either the B777-9s or the A350-1000s. Bolat remained tight-lipped about specific make-up of the order, leaving room for speculation.
Additionally, the Chairman mentioned a delay in the order for regional jets until after the widebody and narrowbody fleets are contracted. He cited engine issues with both the A220s and the E2s as the cause for this complication.
Expansion to Australia on the Horizon
Despite the delay in aircraft orders, Turkish Airlines is pushing forward with its expansion plans. Bolat confirmed that the airline will initiate services to Australia by the end of 2023. The initial phase will see thrice-weekly operations to Melbourne Tullamarine via Singapore Changi.
Acknowledging that this offer isn’t optimal, Bolat noted that improvements will only be viable with the new-generation widebodies. The airline is currently operating 10x weekly between Istanbul Airport and Singapore.
Melbourne was chosen as the starting point due to its limited international offerings and a considerable Turkish diaspora. Looking ahead, Turkish Airlines has plans to ramp up Melbourne flight frequency to daily, while also including daily services to Sydney Kingsford Smith. Brisbane International and Perth International are on the long-term analysis list.
Turkish Airlines is navigating a transformative period in its history. As it takes a pause on its historic aircraft order, the airline keeps its gaze fixed on expansion.
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