By Tuba Sahin

ANKARA

Turkish Airlines announced Friday that it intends to buy 40 787-9 Dreamliner jets from Boeing.

According to a press release from the flag carrier, Chairman Ilker Ayci said that placing the order would help the airline meet the demand for wide-body aircraft at Istanbul's third airport, strengthen its fleet capacity and enhance passenger satisfaction.

"During the talks to finalize the order, we are strictly evaluating the $1 billion worth business volume for the local Turkish supplier industry," Ayci said.

Boeing Vice Chairman Ray Conner said the purchase of the planes would help Boeing reach its long-term target to expand its presence in Turkey.

"... we greatly value the new order commitment that we announce together with Turkish Airlines and aim to move this successful cooperation much more forward in the forthcoming periods," Conner said.

The talks are scheduled to be completed by 2023, the statement added.