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Turkish Technic and CFM Discuss Launching LEAP Engine Repair Hub in Istanbul

Turkish Technic and CFM Explore Establishment of LEAP Engine Repair Hub in Istanbul
Turkish Technic, the maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) arm of Turkish Airlines, is engaged in advanced negotiations with CFM International, the U.S.-French engine manufacturer, to launch a dedicated repair facility for LEAP engines in Istanbul. This potential collaboration was disclosed by Turkish Technic Chairman Ahmet Bolat during the International Air Transport Association’s (IATA) Annual General Meeting held in Delhi, India. Bolat emphasized the inherent dependency on manufacturers for parts supply, stating, “Regarding engines, we cannot be fully independent anyway, because the parts will be supplied by the manufacturer. If you can repair some of the models, that’s the advantage.”
Growing Fleet and Maintenance Demand
The impetus for this initiative is closely tied to Turkish Airlines’ expanding fleet. The airline currently operates 28 Boeing 737 MAX aircraft equipped with CFM’s LEAP-1B engines and has 35 additional units on order. Furthermore, a prospective agreement for 150 more 737 MAX jets could significantly increase this number. Turkish Airlines also has 205 Airbus A320neo-family aircraft on order, of which 48 will be powered by Pratt & Whitney’s PW1000G geared turbofan (GTF) engines. The engine selection for the remaining aircraft remains undecided, leaving open the possibility of incorporating CFM’s LEAP-1A engines. This growing fleet underscores the rising demand for comprehensive engine maintenance capabilities.
Existing Infrastructure and Expansion Prospects
Turkish Technic already maintains a robust engine maintenance infrastructure at Istanbul’s Sabiha Gokcen Airport, servicing CFM56 and CF6-80E1 engines. Additionally, it operates the Turkish Engine Center, a joint venture with Pratt & Whitney, which specializes in repairs of V2500-A5 and CFM56-7B engines. This established foundation provides a strategic advantage for expanding into LEAP engine maintenance, although integrating new capabilities will require careful logistical planning.
In parallel, Turkish Technic has recently broadened its scope by joining Rolls-Royce’s TotalCare aftermarket network. The company signed an agreement to construct a new facility in Istanbul dedicated to servicing various Trent engine models. Construction is slated to commence within two to three months, with the first engine inductions expected by 2027. This project is projected to increase Turkish Technic’s annual revenue by approximately 30% and contribute an estimated $700 million annually to the Turkish economy through exports, reinforcing the company’s position as a leader in engine maintenance services.
Challenges and Strategic Considerations
The establishment of a LEAP engine repair hub presents both significant opportunities and challenges. Turkish Technic must navigate regulatory frameworks, obtain necessary permits, and ensure full compliance with international aviation standards. Effectively marketing the new facility’s capabilities to attract third-party clients will be essential to its success. Moreover, competitive responses from other MRO providers, including potential expansions or renegotiations with engine manufacturers, could influence market dynamics.
As Turkish Technic advances its engine maintenance portfolio, its capacity to overcome these hurdles will be pivotal in positioning Istanbul as a key regional center for advanced engine repair and overhaul services.

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