Boost for Boeing as Pegasus inks deal for up to 200 aircraft
December 19, 2024
Turkish low-cost carrier (LCC), Pegasus Airlines, has confirmed the largest order in its history with a landmark deal to purchase 100 Boeing 737-10 aircraft, along with options for an additional 100 units.
In line with Pegasus’ growth targets, the airline is making a significant investment in Boeing with the 200-strong order, which is valued at around US$36 billion. The first deliveries are due to take place in 2028, with the option to convert 100 additional purchasing options into firm orders at a later date based on market conditions and the airline’s needs.
Anticipated growth
“As a leading stakeholder in our country’s tourism sector, we are working tirelessly to reach new record-highs and do our part for Türkiye to achieve the targeted 100 million visitors and US$100 billion in revenue in tourism,” said Güliz Öztürk, CEO of Pegasus Airlines.
She added the airline, which creates net cash inflows and the highest added value for the country, has shown record-breaking growth after the pandemic. “We continue to invest in our fleet in line with our growth targets in Türkiye and globally and to expand our network by launching new routes,” she added.
The LCC currently operates a fleet of 94 aircraft comprised of Boeing 737-800 aircraft, as well as Airbus A320-200neos, A320-200ceos and A321-200neos. It prides itself on offering low-cost travel on a young fleet of aircraft serving 144 destinations in 53 countries including 35 domestic routes in Türkiye.
The largest single-aisle aircraft in Boeing’s 737 family, the 737-10 is powered by CFM International LEAP-1B engines. It offers 20% lower fuel consumption compared to previous-generation aircraft and has a seat capacity of up to 230 passengers, making it an efficient option for short-and medium-haul flights.
Boost for Boeing
Commenting on the LCCs decision to continue investing in Boeing aircraft, Öztürk added that the OEMs aircraft have been an “integral part of operations” since Pegasus began operations in 1990. “We are pleased to be expanding our fleet with the new Boeing 737-10 model aircraft. We are confident that our collaboration will create new opportunities for local manufacturing, technology transfer, R&D, training and employment in the Turkish aviation industry.”
She also noted that the order will “open new doors and create production and export opportunities both for Turkish manufacturers and for the wider aviation industry.”
The order is a welcome boost for the US manufacturer, which has endured a troubled year so far including a punishing worker strike, which was finally resolved last month. It also follows the news earlier this week from the president and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes, Stephanie Pope, that the aviation giant has now resumed production of its 767 and 777 models, having already resumed production of its 737 Max jets.
