Turkish Airlines is to place an $11bn order for 40 new Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft.

The order is yet to be finalised between the two companies.

Turkish Airlines board and executive committee chairman Ilker Ayci said: “The 787 Dreamliner is the most technologically advanced airplane in the world.

“Our intent to purchase these Dreamliners is to meet the demand for wide-body airplanes at the third airport, further strengthen our fleet capacity on the 100th anniversary of the Republic and to enhance passenger satisfaction.”

"Boeing's relationship with Turkey spans more than 70 years and we have outstanding long-term partnerships."

In addition, both Boeing and the Turkish Government have revealed the Boeing Turkey National Aerospace Initiative, which aims to support the growth of the country's aerospace industry.

The initiative is expected to help the country to meet the goal of its Vision 2023 and enhance Boeing's presence in the Turkish market.

It also provides a strategic framework to align Boeing’s investment and programmes with the government, Turkish Airlines, aerospace service companies and industry suppliers in the fields of research, engineering and skill development.

Boeing vice-chairman Ray Conner said: “Boeing's relationship with Turkey spans more than 70 years and we have outstanding long-term partnerships.

“Working together with Turkey, we are now taking our collaboration to the next level, which will accelerate the growth of the Turkish aerospace industry while achieving Boeing's long-term objective to expand its presence in the marketplace.”

Separately, Turkish Airlines has started discussions with Airbus to purchase up to 40 A350 aircraft, reported Reuters.

The deal is set to be valued at $12.4bn at list prices.

Image: A Turkish Airlines aircraft in the sky. Photo: courtesy of Boeing.