What's Happening?
Pegasus Airlines, Turkey's largest low-cost carrier, has entered into a long-term maintenance agreement with CFM International. This deal is part of a new order for up to 300 Leap-1B engines, which will power and support Pegasus's future Boeing 737-10 fleet. Currently, Pegasus operates the Leap-1A engine across its Airbus A320neo-family aircraft, which will expand to 117 A320neo and A321neo models by next year. The airline is set to begin receiving the 737-10s in 2028, with plans to acquire approximately 16 aircraft per year until reaching a total of 100 by 2033. Pegasus Airlines CEO Güliz Öztürk expressed satisfaction with the performance of the Leap engine family and anticipates similar reliability and efficiency for the new Boeing fleet.
Why It's Important?
This agreement marks a significant step for Pegasus Airlines as it continues to expand and modernize its fleet. By securing a long-term maintenance deal with CFM International, Pegasus ensures the operational efficiency and reliability of its future Boeing 737-10 aircraft. This move also highlights the airline's strategy of alternating between major aircraft manufacturers, having previously transitioned from Boeing 737NGs to Airbus A320neos. The decision to stick with CFM engines across these transitions underscores the company's confidence in the engine's performance. Additionally, this development comes amid industry-wide challenges with engine reliability, as highlighted by issues faced by other carriers like Air Transat with Pratt & Whitney engines.
What's Next?
Pegasus Airlines is poised to begin integrating the Boeing 737-10s into its fleet starting in 2028. The airline will need to manage the logistics of this fleet expansion while maintaining its current operations. The long-term maintenance agreement with CFM International will play a crucial role in ensuring the smooth introduction and operation of these new aircraft. As the airline continues to grow, it will likely focus on optimizing its route network and enhancing customer service to leverage the increased capacity and efficiency provided by the new fleet.
