Ireland-based aircraft lessor SMBC Aviation Capital has ordered 25 Boeing 737 MAX aircraft, bringing its backlog of the type to a total of 81 aircraft.
In a joint announcement, Boeing stated that “lessors are looking to increase their single-aisle portfolios to provide airlines with more fuel-efficient jets capable of operating across various route networks”.
“We are pleased to conclude this further order with our long-standing partner Boeing and we look forward to working closely with them in the future,” Peter Barrett, the chief executive officer (CEO) of SMBC Aviation Capital, said.
The order will help the lessor project its commitment to “to provide our customers with the latest-technology, most fuel-efficient aircraft, as they seek to meet their own sustainability objectives and reduce operating costs,” Barrett added.
According to ch-aviation.com data, SMBC Aviation Capital manages a total of 712 aircraft, 512 of which are owned by the company. In addition, it manages a total of 57 Boeing 737 MAX 8s, as well as seven Boeing 737 MAX 9s.
SMBC Aviation Capital-owned 737 MAX aircraft are operated by airlines such as Aeromexico, flydubai, Icelandair, as well as Aircraft, Crew, Maintenance, and Insurance (ACMI) operators like SmartLynx, ch-aviation.com data showed.
“As one of the industry’s leading airplane lessors, SMBC’s decision to increase its 737 MAX backlog with an order for 25 737-8s shows its confidence in the value the airplane brings to its airline customers,” Stan Deal, the president and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes (BCA) added.
According to the Boeing executive, the 737 MAX 8 offers incredible versatility and unrivaled fuel efficiency for airlines, as well as lessors, making it a “key asset” for the latter to help the former achieve their sustainability goals.
According to SMBC Aviation Capital, the 25 aircraft are scheduled for delivery in 2028 and 2029.
On September 5, 2023, another lessor, Aviation Capital Group, ordered 13 Boeing 737 MAX aircraft. The order was split between seven 737 MAX 8 and six 737 MAX 10 aircraft, with the newest order increasing its 737 MAX order book to 47 aircraft.