Turkish plane wish draws attention

ISTANBUL - Anadolia Agency

Transportation Minister Yıldırım (2nd R) speaks during the Transportation, Maritime Affairs and Communications Forum. AA photo

Turkey’s plans to produce its own commercial plane have begun taking shape as several companies declared their intention to participate in the project during the 11th Transportation, Maritime Affairs and Communications Forum 2013 in Istanbul.

“We are ready to make any contribution to Turkey’s initiative,” said Sierra Nevada Corp (SNC) executive Fatih Özmen on Sept. 6, adding that the country could take significant steps on the road to launching a space program over the next decade.

Turkey plans to manufacture planes with a capacity of 60 to 120 passengers, Transportation Minister Binali Yıldırım said last week.

Yıldırım noted that the ministry made a presentation covering the issue at a Cabinet meeting at the beginning of the week. “We have all reached a mutual understanding to proceed immediately.”