Turkish Airlines signs Leap-1B engine deal and plans new MRO facility

Turkish Airlines has signed a memorandum of understanding with CFM International for Leap-1B engines and spares to power its recently ordered Boeing 737 Max aircraft. Turkish Technic, the carrier's maintenance division, will set up a facility dedicated to repair and overhaul of the engine type.

The airline ordered 100 of the narrowbodies last month and holds options on another 50, all powered only by the Leap-1B. CFM said the agreement includes a long-term maintenance contract covering more than 600 Leap-1B powerplants, a figure that counts spare engines, units already in service on 79 737 Max aircraft flown by Turkish Airlines and its subsidiary AJet, and engines for aircraft still to be delivered.

CFM said the arrangement will expand Turkish Technic's engine maintenance capabilities through the new facility, letting the unit offer a broader range of maintenance services. Financial terms were not disclosed.