Turkish Airlines secures $412m financing from Bank of China to expand its fleet and strengthen Türkiye–China economic ties

Turkish Airlines secures $412m financing deal from the Bank of China in a landmark agreement designed to accelerate the carrier’s global growth strategy and fleet expansion.

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The five-year facility, worth 2.9 billion Chinese Yuan (approximately $412 million), was arranged by Bank of China Turkey A.Ş. in coordination with the bank’s Macau branch.

The funding will support Turkish Airlines’ long-term development initiatives, including infrastructure projects at Istanbul Airport and its broader 2033 centennial goals.

According to the airline, the transaction marks a major milestone in diversifying its funding sources while reaffirming its commitment to sustainable and inclusive growth.

The agreement also strengthens economic and financial cooperation between Türkiye and China, aligning with both nations’ strategic partnership frameworks.

Turkish Airlines’ Chief Financial Officer and Board Member, Assoc. Prof. Murat Şeker, described the financing deal as a significant achievement that deepens the airline’s partnership with one of the world’s most influential financial institutions.

“We are pleased to deepen our collaboration with Bank of China through this important financing transaction,” Şeker said. “As Turkish Airlines continues to pursue sustainable growth and global expansion, we value the trust and partnership established with leading international institutions such as the Bank of China.”

He added that the cooperation would not only strengthen the airline’s financial position but also contribute to broader economic and cultural ties between Türkiye and China.

The funding supports Turkish Airlines’ ambition to expand its fleet to over 800 aircraft and enhance service quality by 2033, consolidating its position as a key connector in global aviation.

With operations spanning over 340 destinations across 130 countries, the airline continues to invest heavily in innovation, sustainability, and operational resilience amid global industry challenges.

The Bank of China, one of the world’s largest state-owned commercial banks, has been an increasingly important financial partner to Turkish institutions in recent years, underscoring deepening bilateral cooperation between the two countries.

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The $412 million facility signals growing international confidence in Turkish Airlines’ financial strength and strategic vision — a powerful testament to its rising global influence and long-term growth trajectory.