Pegasus Airlines has taken delivery of the first aircraft of its 100 Airbus order made in 2012, the single largest aircraft order in Turkish civil aviation history at the time.

The A320neo aircraft TC-NBA - nicknamed ‘Demokrasi’ (Democracy) - makes Pegasus the launch operator for A320neo with CFM engines.

The delivery ceremony at Airbus’ Hamburg headquarters was attended by Pegasus chief executive Mehmet Nane and Airbus president Fabrice Brégier.

Nane said: “We are gathered here as the representatives of a brand proud of its past achievements and the positive influence it has had in the market.

“This new delivery of the aircraft marks the official launch of a new era for Pegasus.

“We’re delighted to be taking delivery of the first of our ‘New Engine Option’ (neo) aircraft from the A320 and A321 series.

“With our new aircraft we will offer our guests an unrivalled travel experience and as we receive more deliveries we will set a new benchmark in flight comfort, seamlessness and ease across our entire fleet. Our new aircraft will power our continued growth and be the new face of Pegasus.”

“The addition of the new aircraft into our fleet will also contribute to the growth of the tourism and trade sectors and foster the economic growth in our country.”