(ANSA) - BELGRADE, DEC 8 - According to a statement, Turkey's Pegasus Airlines has committed to acquiring Czech Airlines and its subsidiary Smartwings, for a total of €154 million, allowing the Istanbul-based operator to expand internationally. Pegasus Airlines, founded in 1990, operates flights to 158 destinations in 55 countries, in addition to the 80 destinations in 20 countries served by the Czech operator and Smartwings. "We are opening a new chapter for Pegasus Airlines," commented CEO Güliz Öztürk. The company began operating with 14 aircraft and will now operate 127, with the Czech group's 47 aircraft to be added once the authorities approve the acquisition. (ANSA).