Dubaiuncovered

Airbus SE is on the verge of securing a major deal with Turkish Airlines for approximately 350 aircraft, in a move that underscores Turkey’s commitment to bolstering its flagship carrier as a global force. The announcement is expected to take place during the 2023 Dubai Air Show, according to sources familiar with the negotiations.

Sources have revealed that the deal could consist of a purchase of 75 A350-900 models, 15 of the larger A350-100 variant, 250 A321neo single-aisle jets, and a few A350 freighter models. Turkish Airlines intends to nearly double its fleet to about 800 aircraft in the next decade as part of a strategic expansion plan.

If the agreement is finalized, it would significantly impact the dynamics of this year’s Dubai Air Show. Dubai’s flagship carrier, Emirates, has traditionally been the most prominent player at the event but has publically expressed its interest in making a large purchase as well, potentially exceeding 100 aircraft.

Airbus declined to comment on the ongoing talks with Turkish Airlines while the office of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, who is currently attending a regional meeting in Riyadh, did not immediately respond to a request for comment. However, earlier reports by Turkish state-run news service Anadolu Agency suggested that a deal between Airbus and Turkish Airlines was imminent.

The potential deal with Turkish Airlines highlights an industry-wide trend of airlines rushing to secure delivery slots due to increased demand. With Airbus already close to a historic high in annual orders, the Dubai Air Show is expected to further boost the company’s position in the aviation industry, indicating a strong rebound from the pandemic-induced downturn.

Last week, Airbus announced an increase in production rates of its A350 model to meet the growing demand, emphasizing the resurgence of the aviation market. This spells good news for Airbus and its suppliers, such as Rolls-Royce Holdings Plc which provides engines for the A350 model.