ATW Daily News

Turkish commits to least 20 737s as fleet renewal continues

Friday February 5, 2010

Turkish Airlines yesterday continued its ambitious fleet renewal and announced a commitment for 10 737-800s and 10 737-900ERs (plus 15 options) that will join the A320 family aircraft ordered last month.

The firm Boeing narrowbodies are scheduled for delivery in 2011-14 and the 15 options, which may be -800s or -900ERs, would be available in 2013-15 if converted. The aircraft will be fitted with Boeing's Sky Interior cabin. In January, THY announced an order for 14 A321-200s and six A319-100s with options for 10 additional A319 or A321s (ATWOnline, Jan. 5).

Last year the carrier outlined a 2009-23 fleet strategy and sent out RFPs to Airbus and Boeing for the purchase of 35 widebodies (25 firm and 10 options) and 70 narrowbodies (50 firm and 20 options). In addition to the aforementioned narrowbody orders, it has signed up for 12 777-300ERs and 12 A330s (including two freighters). A THY spokesperson confirmed to ATWOnline that the new 737 order is part of the 105-aircraft fleet renewal plan (ATWOnline, Dec. 23, 2009).

The fleet is set to increase by almost 50% to 196 aircraft by 2016 from 133 at present, the company said in a filing with the Istanbul stock exchange. It is expected to comprise 155 narrowbodies, 36 passenger widebodies and five freighters. This year it will add five 777-300ERs, four A330-300s and four 737s.

by Cathy Buyck

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