Airbus, Turkish Air Force to cooperate on CN235 aircraft maintenance

ANKARA 

Airbus and the Turkish Air Force signed a letter of intent on Wednesday to start the certification of the Air Supply and Maintenance center in Kayseri, Turkey as a regional maintenance hub for CN-235 aircraft.

CN-235 is a medium-range twin-engine transport plane used for military roles, including maritime patrol, surveillance and air transport.

“The agreement capitalizes on those proven capabilities to provide support for aircraft of the Turkish Air Force, Coast Guard and Navy, as well as those of other operators in the region,” Airbus said in a statement.

Turkey is the world’s largest operator of CN-235s with 59 aircraft.

The country has managed to gain experience on maintenance, repair, overhaul and updating of the aircraft during the past 20 years.

“Turkey has vast experience with the operation and support of the CN235 and we are delighted to support the Turkish Air Force in adding a valuable asset to the CN235 global support network,” Airbus Defense and Space head of services Philippe Galland said.

Pilot Major General Ali Demiral, representing the Turkish Air Force, said: “We appreciate Airbus Defense and Space’s support in obtaining this important certification and look forward to implementing this new capability in the region.”