SunExpress to buy up to 90 Boeing jets

By Tuba Ongun

Turkish-German airline SunExpress announced Monday that it will purchase up to 90 fuel-efficient single-aisle Boeing jets, more than doubling its fleet by 2033.

The deal between SunExpress and Boeing includes 45 model jets of 737-8 and 17 737-10, with the opportunity for up to 45 additional 737 MAX airplanes, the carrier said in a statement.

SunExpress CEO Max Kownatzki said the company is committed to meet market demand and achieve a greater international footprint.

"Over the next decade, we will more than double our fleet, reaching a 150-aircraft fleet by 2033," Kownatzki said.

"SunExpress is well-positioned for the future and will expand its network with more a fuel-efficient and environmentally sustainable aircraft fleet while continuing to fulfill its role as Türkiye’s tourism ambassador."

The agreement will build on the airline’s previous order for 42 737-8s, nine of which have already been delivered.

"SunExpress’s continued commitment to the 737 MAX reflects its confidence in the airplane’s capability to meet demand from travelers to popular destinations across Türkiye and beyond," said Stan Deal, president and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes.

Based in the Turkish resort town of Antalya, SunExpress was founded in 1989 as a joint venture of Turkish Airlines and Germany's Lufthansa. Last year, it carried 11 million passengers across 175 routes to 30 countries.