In a significant deal, Turkish Airlines has chosen Airbus to supply it with 220 aircraft. The order is for 150 A321 and 70 A350 aircraft with Trent XWB engines supplied by Rolls-Royce.
“The Trent XWB is the perfect engine to support Turkish Airlines as it continues to grow,” said Rolls Royce CEO Tufan Erginbilgic. “This order will make Turkish Airlines the largest Trent XWB operator in the world”.
"This landmark order is more than an expansion; it's a testament to our dedication to innovation, operational excellence, and a sustainable future," said Turkish Airlines chairman of the board and the executive committee Ahmet Bolat. "This investment is a crucial milestone in the further evolution of Türkiye’s aviation industry."
A significant portion of the manufacturing process is expected to take place in the UK, which is a boost to its manufacturing industry and aviation sector. The UK government is providing £685 million in grant funding between 2022-25 for the Aerospace Technology Institute Programme, and a further £975 million has been earmarked until 2030.
“Meeting the growing demand in aviation will create better-paid jobs and new opportunities in manufacturing hubs from Derby to Wales, so we can continue growing the economy,” said British prime minister Rishi Sunak. He added: “By strengthening trade ties with growing economic powers like Turkey we will ensure UK businesses remain at the forefront of global growth and innovation”.
The deal follows two orders from Turkish Airlines for 10 A350-900s in September and four A350-900s in July. This latest order will take Turkish Airlines’ total orderbook for Airbus aircraft to 504, of which 212 are already delivered.