SunExpress to build new MRO hangar in Antalya

SunExpress has announced a significant investment to expand its aircraft maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) capacity by constructing a new hangar at Antalya Airport. The facility is designed to accommodate simultaneous maintenance for nine aircraft and will handle both routine line maintenance and more comprehensive heavy maintenance and revisions.

CEO Marcus Schnabel stated that the project is currently in the planning and permitting stages. Construction is expected to begin in mid-2027, with the facility projected to become operational by autumn 2029. The project will be entirely self-financed by the airline. In addition to the main hangar, the site will include a specialized “mini motor workshop” to perform small-scale engine repairs, reducing the high costs associated with transporting engines for service.

The investment is driven by the airline’s fleet expansion, which includes the upcoming delivery of 64 Boeing 737 MAX 8 and MAX 10 aircraft. By increasing its in-house heavy maintenance capabilities, SunExpress aims to reduce its current reliance on external providers such as Turkish Technic. The airline is also addressing industry-wide technician shortages through collaborations with Turkish universities and is considering the establishment of its own training center in Antalya.