In a significant move for the aviation MRO (Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul) sector, Air France Industries KLM Engineering & Maintenance (AFI KLM E&M) has solidified its partnership with SunExpress through a new long-term engine support agreement. The contract, effective from 2025 to 2031, ensures comprehensive maintenance for the CFM56-7B engines on SunExpress’s Boeing 737 Next Generation fleet.
This agreement deepens a collaborative relationship that began with a prior contract in 2018. The renewal signals a reinforced commitment from both companies, with AFI KLM E&M positioned as a key strategic partner to support SunExpress’s ambitious operational goals and fleet expansion.
Cemil Sayar, Chief Operations Officer of SunExpress, emphasized the foundation of the partnership, stating, “Our collaboration with AFI KLM E&M is rooted in mutual trust and a proven track record of reliability. As we navigate a period of significant growth, aligning with a partner who offers both technical expertise and operational flexibility is paramount. AFI KLM E&M has consistently delivered the high-quality MRO services we require, and we are confident in extending this successful relationship.”
The sentiment was echoed by Martijn de Vries, Vice President at KLM Engine Services, who commented, “We are proud to build upon our strong relationship with SunExpress. This renewal is a testament to our shared dedication to operational excellence. Our focus is on providing efficient, high-performance engine solutions that enable their continued success. Furthermore, we are excited about the potential to extend our collaboration to include support for their future LEAP-1B engines.”
SunExpress, a key leisure carrier bridging Europe and Türkiye, currently operates a fleet of 85 Boeing 737s. With plans to nearly double its fleet to 166 aircraft by 2035, securing dependable, long-term MRO partnerships is crucial for sustaining its growth trajectory and maintaining its high standards of service and reliability. This agreement with AFI KLM E&M provides the foundational support for that expansion.
