a man and woman in a chair

Farnborough Airshow 2024: Turkish New Business Class Suite + More Orders

Turkish Airlines has unveiled its new Business Class suite. flynas has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) for up to 160 Airbus A320neo and A330neo aircraft whereas ATR also logged the first order of the Airshow from Air Tahiti.

Photo Report: Turkish Airlines Unveils Crystal Business Class Suite

  • Debuting on Boeing 777-300/ER in Early 2025
  • Wireless charging, universal AC power outlets, and USB Type-C ports
  • 22-inch 4K resolution IFE screen

Turkish Airlines has unveiled its new Business Class suite, named Crystal Business Class, at the 2024 Farnborough International Airshow.

The new Crystal Business Class will replace the existing 2-3-2 layout with a more passenger-friendly 1-2-1 configuration, ensuring every seat has direct aisle access. High walls and sliding doors will enhance privacy, while middle seats come equipped with retractable privacy dividers.

Turkish Airlines New Business Class Suite
Turkish Airlines New Business Class Suite
Turkish Airlines New Business Class Suite
Turkish Airlines New Business Class Suite
Turkish Airlines New Business Class Suite
Turkish Airlines New Business Class Suite
a man sitting in a plane

Moreover, the seats convert into fully flat beds with the touch of a button, complete with a mattress topper, blanket, and pillow.

The design is based on the Safran Unity platform by Turkish seatmaker TCI, similar to those found on Japan AirlinesAirbus A350 and Air India’s new twin-aisle Business Class.

Initial retrofitting on the Boeing 777-300/ERs will begin in May 2026. The airline aims to retrofit 50% of its fleet by the end of 2026. These new suites will also be installed on the Airbus A350-1000 jets, expected to launch ultra-long-haul flights to Sydney and Melbourne from late 2026.

a seat with a bed and a mirror
a man sitting in a chair
Turkish Airlines New Business Class Suite
Turkish Airlines New Business Class Suite

flynas Signs MOU for Up to 160 Airbus A320neo, A330neos

On the fourth day of the 2024 Farnborough Airshow, flynas signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Airbus for 75 A320neos and 15 A330-900s. This agreement also includes options for an additional 55 A320neo and 15 A330neo aircraft.

These new aircraft will join the carrier’s all-Airbus fleet serving international, domestic, and regional routes. The new A330neos will offer a two-class configuration, accommodating up to 400 passengers.

“We are excited to further strengthen our long-standing partnership with Airbus. The A320neo Family provides exceptional operational performance and environmental benefits, allowing us to offer unique, low-cost travel experiences. Additionally, the A330 will enhance our long-haul capabilities with its advanced technology and efficiency while supporting our growth plans and Saudi Arabia’s pilgrim program.”

Bander Almohanna, CEO and Managing Director of flynas
a group of men standing around a table with airplanes
flynas Signs MOU for Airbus A320neo, A330neos. Image: Airbus

The Saudi Arabian low-cost carrier recently took delivery of the 53rd new aircraft out of its order for 120 A320neo aircraft from Airbus. The addition of the A330neos is expected to support flynas’ growth plans and cater to high-demand routes.

“We are delighted to expand our partnership with flynas through this significant milestone for both A320neo and A330-900 aircraft. The A330neo will allow flynas to further grow into widebody markets by building on the A320, benefiting from Airbus’ unique commonality,” said Christian Scherer, Airbus Chief Executive Officer, Commercial Aircraft.

Air Tahiti Orders Four ATR 72-600

Air Tahiti has ordered four additional ATR 72-600 aircraft, along with an eight-year Global Maintenance Agreement (GMA). Deliveries of the new turboprops are scheduled between 2025 and 2028.

The Tahiti-based carrier currently operates a fleet of 11 turboprops, comprising nine ATR 72-600 and two ATR 42-600. The additional ATR 72-600s are expected to enable Air Tahiti to boost both flight frequency and capacity.

a red and white airplane in the sky
Air Tahiti ATR 72-600. Image: ATR

“Air Tahiti has been a cornerstone in Tahiti and its islands for more than 65 years, facilitating not just travel but a better quality of life. By ensuring our communities have easy access to essential goods, services, and cultural experiences, we’ve also helped boost the local economy and tourism. The ATR fleet has been pivotal in these efforts and it will continue to enable us to offer reliable and responsible connectivity.”

Edouard Wong Fat, Air Tahiti’s Chief Executive Officer

Berniq Airways Orders Six Airbus A320Neos

Berniq Airways has placed a firm order for six Airbus A320neo Family aircraft. The airline already operates six A320s and intends to further develop its regional and international routes with the additional A320neo Family aircraft.

“We are proud to be the first airline in Libya to order the advanced A320neo Family aircraft. This significant investment marks a new chapter for Berniq Airways as we continue to lead the way in modernizing our fleet and enhancing our service offerings.”

Waseem Ezzway, Chairman of Berniq Airways
two men sitting at a table with signs and a plane on it
Berniq Airways Orders Airbus A320neos. Image: Airbus

Berniq Airlines is a new Libyan airline that operates domestic and international flights. The company aims to improve air transportation services in Libya and enhance connectivity between Libyan cities and the world. 

The Libyan carrier currently operates flights to Egypt, Tunisia, Turkey, and the United Arab Emirates with a fleet of six A320 aircraft.

EVA Air Orders GEnx Engines for B787 Dreamliners

EVA Air has ordered GEnx Engines to power its four new Boeing 787-10 Dreamliners.

Since its introduction in 2011, the GEnx engine family has accumulated over 56 million flight hours. It stands as GE Aerospace’s fastest-selling, high-thrust engine to date, with nearly 3,000 engines currently in service or on backlog, including spare units. 

“We’re thrilled EVA has selected our high-performance GEnx engine to power its fleet expansion. We look forward to ensuring GEnx engines continue providing outstanding economic and operational performance.” 

Russell Stokes, President and CEO, Commercial Engines and Services, GE Aerospace
EVA AIR B787
Eva Air B787

The GEnx-1B engine powers two-thirds of all B787 aircraft currently in operation.

“EVA currently operates 15 GEnx-powered Boeing 787s, and they have demonstrated outstanding fuel burn, performance, and reliability. The additional engines will help us further expand our fleet to manage our growing route schedule,” said Clay Sun, President of EVA Air.