Aerospace

Airbus to Get Turkish Airlines Order For Extra 220 Planes

Airbus Hits the Jackpot in December 2023 with Record-Breaking Aircraft Orders

On December 15, 2023, Turkish Airlines, Türkiye’s national carrier, has announced a significant expansion of its fleet with a substantial order of 220 Airbus aircraft. This comprises 150 of Airbus’ highly popular A321s and 70 of the cutting-edge A350 widebody aircraft, which includes 50 A350-900s, 15 A350-1000s, and 5 A350F freighters. Notably, this follows two previous orders from the airline for 10 A350-900s in September and four A350-900s in July 2023. With this latest order, Turkish Airlines’ total Airbus orderbook reaches 504, with 212 already delivered.

Prof. Dr. Ahmet Bolat, Chairman of the Board and the Executive Committee of Turkish Airlines, emphasized the significance of this order, stating, “This landmark order is more than an expansion; it’s a testament to our dedication to innovation, operational excellence, and a sustainable future.”

He highlighted the positive impact of these advanced Airbus aircraft on operational capabilities and environmental goals, marking a crucial milestone in Türkiye’s aviation industry evolution.

Turkish places an order for A350-900, A350-1000, A350F, and A321

Christian Scherer, Airbus Chief Commercial Officer and Head of International, commended Turkish Airlines’ bold vision, noting that the A350-900, A350-1000, A350F, and A321 will serve as flagship aircraft, contributing to the airline’s sustainable expansion with enhanced efficiency, reduced fuel consumption, noise, and emissions, and best-in-class cabin features.

The A321neo, the largest in Airbus’ A320neo Family, offers outstanding range and performance, featuring new generation engines and Sharklets for a 50% noise reduction and over 20% fuel savings and CO₂ reduction compared to previous generation single-aisle aircraft.

The A350, recognized as the world’s most modern and efficient widebody aircraft, boasts state-of-the-art technologies, aerodynamics, lightweight materials, and latest-generation engines, providing a 25% advantage in fuel burn, operating costs, and CO₂ emissions. The A350 Family, with versions A350-900 and A350-1000, offers an ultimate passenger experience, combining spaciousness, wide seats, high ceilings, and ambient lighting.

The A350F, designed for cargo operations, features the largest main deck cargo door and an airframe composed of advanced materials, along with efficient Rolls-Royce engines, resulting in at least a 20% lower fuel burn and CO₂ emission compared to its closest competitor.

As of November 2023, the A350 Family has garnered 1,072 orders from 57 leading customers globally. This substantial Airbus order reflects Turkish Airlines’ commitment to modernizing its fleet, achieving environmental goals, and maintaining a leading position in the global aviation landscape.

Aerospace

When Ratan Tata was denied entry to the airfield at the Aero India show, he waited

During our visit to Aero India 2019, we had the unexpected opportunity to see Ratan Tata at the event, which was a thrilling moment for us. However, there was a surprising hiccup when the security staff didn’t allow him to enter due to a lack of a security pass.

Despite this, he remained calm and patiently waited for about 20 minutes until a member of the Tata team brought him the required pass, after which he calmly proceeded inside. It was a humbling sight, showcasing his composed demeanor even in such situations.

Ratan Tata ji is not only a renowned industrialist but also a trained pilot, holding a pilot’s license. In 2007, he became the first Indian civilian to fly the F-16 Falcon during the Aero India show in Bangalore—a proud moment for the nation.

His passion for aviation extended beyond flying, as he played a key role in shaping India’s aerospace industry. Under his leadership, Tata ventured into manufacturing and maintaining aerospace components while upholding its legacy of quality. Notably, Tata’s collaboration with Airbus to develop and manufacture the C295 aircraft is a testament to its growing influence in the sector.