Turkish Airlines has signed an agreement with HAVELSAN to procure 12 new flight simulation training devices to support aviation fleet expansion. The agreement includes eight Full Flight Simulators (FFS) and four Flight Training Devices (FTD). This procurement aligns with the airline’s goal to expand its fleet beyond 800 aircraft by 2033.
The agreement will support the airline’s pilot training capacity through new hangars housing the flight simulation training equipment. Construction of these simulator hangars began in January 2026, with the first phase scheduled to become operational in 2027. Furthermore, the airline plans to complete its new Flight Training Center by 2028 to accommodate the growing infrastructure.
Expanding Pilot Training Capacity
Under the terms of the contract, HAVELSAN will manufacture all 12 devices within Türkiye. These systems will be integrated directly into the carrier’s expanding training infrastructure. Notably, this initiative supports the airline’s growing roster of pilots as the fleet scales up over the next decade.
This project represents a significant step toward strengthening domestic high-technology capabilities and advancing indigenous flight simulation training systems. Meanwhile, the collaboration uses HAVELSAN’s 40 years of experience in defense and software simulation systems to deliver localized aviation solutions.
Entry into Wide-Body Flight Simulation Training
The contract marks a strategic milestone for HAVELSAN as it enters the wide-body aircraft simulation market. The company will deliver eight Full Flight Simulators covering narrow-body and wide-body aircraft, alongside four Flight Training Devices. Consequently, this expansion allows the manufacturer to broaden its product portfolio for international and domestic business operations.
“This agreement marks an important milestone as it represents HAVELSAN’s entry into the wide-body flight simulation market. We remain committed to delivering advanced, high-quality simulation solutions that support excellence in pilot training.”
Dr. Mehmet Akif Nacar, CEO of HAVELSAN
Existing Simulator Fleet and Certifications
Turkish Airlines currently operates six HAVELSAN-manufactured, EASA Level D certified Full Flight Simulators at its training facilities. This existing fleet includes three Airbus A320neo/CEO simulators, two Boeing 737 MAX simulators, and one Boeing 737NG simulator. In addition, EASA recently completed the certification process for a Boeing 737 MAX simulator delivered under a 2025 Paris Air Show order.
“With these new orders, by 2033 the Turkish Airlines Flight Training Center will become one of Europe’s largest flight training centers across three campuses, meeting the needs of Turkish Airlines while also providing training services for other airlines.”
Prof. Murat Şeker, Chairman of the Board and the Executive Committee of Turkish Airlines
Future Outlook for Turkish Aviation
Established in 1933 with a fleet of five aircraft, Turkish Airlines has grown to operate 556 passenger and cargo aircraft. The carrier currently flies to 358 destinations across 133 countries, including 305 international and 53 domestic locations. As a member of the Star Alliance, the airline continues to build its training capabilities to support this global network.
The expansion of the training center into three campuses by 2033 will allow the airline to offer training services to external carriers. This development is expected to position the facility as a major European aviation training hub, utilizing domestic technology developed by HAVELSAN.
