AFI KLM E&M and SunExpress Deepen Collaboration with Long-Term Engine Maintenance Agreement

Air France Industries KLM Engineering & Maintenance (AFI KLM E&M) and SunExpress, a joint venture between Lufthansa and Turkish Airlines, have signed a new, long-term agreement for the maintenance of CFM56- 7B engines. This contract marks a new chapter in the partnership between the two companies and will span from 2025 through 2031.

Under the terms of the agreement, AFI KLM E&M will provide comprehensive shop visit support services for the CFM56-7B engines powering SunExpress’ fleet of Boeing 737 Next Generation aircraft. The renewed cooperation builds on an earlier contract signed in November 2018. With this new agreement, both companies signal a mutual commitment to restore and expand their working relationship, providing SunExpress with the high-quality, flexible MRO services needed to sustain its fleet growth and operational excellence.

Cemil Sayar, Chief Operations Officer of SunExpress, stated: "Our partnership with AFI KLM E&M is built on trust, reliability, and a shared commitment to operational excellence. As our fleet continues to grow, it is critical to work with partners who understand our evolving operational needs. Through our partnership, AFI KLM E&M has consistently demonstrated technical expertise and flexibility we value, and we are pleased to extend our ongoing collaboration."

Martijn de Vries, Vice President at KLM Engine Services commented: "We are honored to renew and strengthen our partnership with SunExpress. We are committed to delivering efficient, and high-performance engine solutions that support SunExpress in maintaining its excellent operational standards. The potential to expand this relationship into LEAP-1B support further reflects the trust and confidence between our teams."

SunExpress is operating a fleet of 85 Boeing 737 aircraft this summer. The airline has ambitious expansion plans, with the fleet projected to grow to 166 aircraft until 2035. This growth, coupled with its role as a key leisure carrier between Europe and Türkiye, increases the importance of strategic partnerships with reliable, expert MRO providers.