Turkish Airlines’ Boeing jet order could face 6-month delay

Turkish Airlines’ long-awaited aircraft order from Boeing Co. may take up to six more months to finalize as the carrier works through contract terms and delivery schedules, Turkish Airlines CEO Bilal Eksi told Bloomberg Tuesday.

Speaking at the launch event of Turkish Airlines Holidays in London, Eksi cited slot availability at Boeing and maintenance costs at engine supplier General Electric Co. as key factors causing the delay. While he expressed optimism about reaching an agreement, he also noted that Airbus SE remains an alternative option.

“Frankly, we haven’t finalized yet,” Eksi said. “This means that we cannot find the reasonable level yet.”

Talks with Boeing ongoing amid order delays

Turkish Airlines has been in discussions with Boeing since mid-2023 when the carrier first proposed a massive 600-plane order, expected to be divided between the two aircraft manufacturers.

While Airbus secured a commitment for 230 jets last year, talks with Boeing have continued amid production challenges at the U.S. planemaker.

The airline is looking to purchase around 300 Boeing aircraft, including 787 Dreamliners and 737 Max jets, Eksi confirmed.

Fleet expansion plans affected by production delays

Turkish Airlines has set a goal of nearly doubling its fleet by the early 2030s. However, delivery delays from both Boeing and Airbus pose potential setbacks to this expansion.

Eksi acknowledged that Airbus has also experienced production issues but stated that Boeing’s delays are more significant. In response to supply chain challenges, the airline has increased its reliance on leasing aircraft to meet demand.

“Every time we are receiving the letter from Boeing, not the aircraft,” Eksi said, referencing ongoing negotiations and delayed deliveries.