Alaska Will Add 157 More Boeing 737 MAX by End of Decade

Alaska Will Add 157 More Boeing 737 MAX by End of Decade

Alaska Airlines revealed today that it will go ahead with it options to purchase 52 Boeing 737 MAX aircraft for delivery between 2024 and 2027. That order would grow the airline’s 737 MAX fleet from 94 to 146.

Alaska also has secured rights for 105 more planes through 2030. This agreement represents the largest commitment for future aircraft in the airline’s history.

“This investment secures aircraft to optimize our growth through the next decade, which we know will be a formidable competitive advantage,” said Alaska Airlines CEO Ben Minicucci. “We’re proud of the strong financial foundation that uniquely positions Alaska to make this commitment to our future, and of the fantastic partnership we share with our hometown aircraft manufacturer at Boeing.”

Alaska Airlines has a fleet of 35 737-9 aircraft, and expects the delivery of another 43 MAX aircraft between now and the end of 2023. The performance of the 737-9 has exceeded expectations on economics and fuel efficiency, as well as guest satisfaction, as per the airline.

The order includes 737-8, 737-9 and 737-10 aircraft, enabling Alaska to optimally match aircraft size and capability with market characteristics.

“As Alaska Airlines sustainably grows its fleet, the 737 MAX family offers environmental performance and flexibility to expand service across its route network,” said Stan Deal, president and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes. “Built in our Renton factory near Alaska’s headquarters in Washington state, these airplanes will carry passengers to destinations for years to come.”

In 2023, a new 737 MAX will be delivered approximately every 10 days. These new aircraft join Alaska’s fleet of 737-900ERs, 737-900s, 737-800s and 737-700s. With the latest order Alaska Airlines could have more than 250 737 MAX series of aircraft by 2030.