Photo: Mehmed Bekir Cakmak/Airways

Turkish Technic, Rolls-Royce Partner for Istanbul MRO Hub

DALLAS — Turkish Technic signed a milestone partnership with Rolls-Royce to develop a licensed engine maintenance center at Istanbul Airport (IST), making Türkiye a global hub for widebody engine MRO services. 

The new center, which will be operational by the end of 2027, aims to cover both local and global TotalCare customers, providing maintenance for Trent XWB-97, XWB-84, and 7000 engines that power Airbus A350 and A330neo fleets.

Growing Capacity, Capability

As the latest addition to the Rolls-Royce MRO Network, Turkish Technic will be able to service up to 200 engine shop visits a year. The new facility will maintain Turkish Airlines' expanding Airbus widebody fleet and serve customers globally. The deal significantly enhances Türkiye's position in the aviation services sector, representing a critical investment in the region's aerospace infrastructure.

Rob Watson, Rolls-Royce President for Civil Aerospace, called the announcement a critical milestone in the OEM's goal of increasing global MRO capacity by 2030. "This agreement brings a strong, flexible, and resilient provider into our global network, and is a natural extension of our established relationship with TK," he said.

Strategic Workforce, Industrial Impact

In addition to its technical strengths, the centre is anticipated to propel workforce training, develop local supply chains, and back home-grown engineering projects. Turkish Technic will increase its engine maintenance staff, developing in-house know-how in one of the most sophisticated engine designs in the world. The investment forms part of Türkiye's aspiration to raise self-sufficiency in high-tech aviation technologies.

Turkish Technic Chairman Prof. Ahmet Bolat highlighted the long-term nature of the association. "The agreement enhances our global presence and improves our ability to provide first-class support for our airline clients," he observed.

Regional Importance

Istanbul, situated at the intersection of Europe, Asia, and the Middle East, presents an exceptionally strategic location for a worldwide engine MRO center. The partnership is underpinning the deepening UK-Türkiye aerospace relationships and supports innovation and economic growth across the wider aviation sector.

By hosting its new facility in Istanbul, Turkish Technic is set to become a key pillar in Rolls-Royce's global support strategy.

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