Turkish Airlines has placed an additional order for a Boeing 737 MAX Full Flight Simulator (FFS) from HAVELSAN, reinforcing its commitment to strengthening its pilot training infrastructure through locally developed technologies. The simulator, scheduled for delivery in January 2026, will mark the seventh Full Flight Simulator in the airline’s expanding fleet.
The deal was announced as part of the ongoing collaboration between the national flag carrier and HAVELSAN, a Turkish software and systems company specialising in defence and aviation technologies. The announcement underscores the airline’s focus on safety, pilot preparedness, and investment in domestically produced advanced training tools.
Professor Ahmet Bolat, Chairman of the Board and Executive Committee at Turkish Airlines, highlighted the strategic value of the partnership. “This additional order reinforces our strategic collaboration with HAVELSAN, reflecting our ongoing commitment to providing world-class pilot training. By expanding our simulators with advanced and reliable technology, we ensure our pilots continue to deliver the exceptional safety and service standards that Turkish Airlines is renowned for.”
This new simulator purchase builds upon the original agreement signed in 2018, which included the procurement of 11 training devices: three A320neo/ceo Full Flight Simulators, two B737 MAX Full Flight Simulators, and six Flight Training Devices. To date, Turkish Airlines has successfully deployed two B737 MAX, two A320neo/ceo simulators, and one B737NG simulator—all manufactured by HAVELSAN and certified to EASA Level D standards, the highest level of simulator certification in civil aviation.
HAVELSAN’s CEO, Dr Mehmet Akif Nacar, welcomed the deepening of the partnership. “We are pleased to strengthen our relationship once again with Turkish Airlines through a new agreement for a third B737 MAX Full Flight Simulator. This continued trust from one of the world’s leading airlines is a strong affirmation of our capabilities and commitment to excellence.”
The announcement also noted that the final A320neo/ceo simulator from the previous contract is on track for delivery in November 2025. The new simulator order further cements Turkish Airlines’ ambition to maintain its high standards in pilot training and operational safety.
Turkish Airlines’ investment in cutting-edge simulator infrastructure is in line with broader aviation industry trends, where pilot proficiency and real-world readiness are seen as vital components of operational success. The use of high-fidelity, EASA Level D-certified simulators allows pilots to experience complex and varied flying conditions in a controlled environment, enhancing both safety and confidence in real-world scenarios.
With this order, Turkish Airlines not only strengthens its training capabilities but also signals continued support for Turkish engineering and innovation in aviation technology. The airline’s partnership with HAVELSAN exemplifies a national effort to leverage homegrown expertise for global aviation excellence.
