Turkish Airlines has signed a multi-year agreement with aviation training technology company CAE for the delivery of five full-flight simulators (FFS) and two flight training devices (FTD), with an option to acquire two additional full-flight simulators, as part of its long-term strategy to expand pilot training capacity.
The agreement was signed at the Farnborough Airshow and supports the airline’s 10-year flight training investment plan as it continues to expand its global fleet and route network. The simulators and training devices will be installed at Turkish Airlines’ new Flight Training Center, construction of which began earlier this year. The simulator hangars are expected to become operational in 2027, while the entire facility is scheduled for completion in 2028.
Turkish Airlines Chairman of the Board and the Executive Committee Prof. Murat Şeker said the investment would strengthen the airline’s pilot training infrastructure with advanced technologies, enabling it to meet growing operational requirements while maintaining high standards of safety and operational excellence. CAE President and Chief Executive Officer Matthew Bromberg said the agreement builds on more than two decades of collaboration between the two companies and will support the airline’s long-term pilot training needs.
Under the contract, CAE will supply two A321neo full-flight simulators, two B787 full-flight simulators, one A350 full-flight simulator and two A350 Level-1 flight training devices, along with options for one additional A350 and one B787 full-flight simulator.
While the agreement does not directly involve India, the expansion of Turkish Airlines’ pilot training infrastructure is expected to support the carrier’s long-term international growth, including operations serving South Asia. In Kolkata, enhanced training capacity could help improve operational reliability and support future network expansion, benefiting business and leisure travellers seeking greater connectivity between eastern India, Europe and other international destinations through Turkish Airlines’ global network.