Low-cost carrier Norwegian Air Shuttle will expand its fleet by leasing 10 Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft from Irish lessor AerCap. The MAXs are expected to be delivered during the first half of 2023.
As part of the same lease agreement, Norwegian will also receive eight Boeing 737-800 NG aircraft by summer 2022. The airline plans to have a total of 70 aircraft by summer 202, continuing to build capacity and meet the expected travel demand.
#AerCap is delighted to support @Fly_Norwegian narrowbody fleet renewal program with the lease of 10 new Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft and 8 Boeing 737-800 NG aircraft.
— AerCap (@AerCapNV) February 28, 2022
Click here for the full story https://t.co/1EYkICzmcW#AvGeek #WeAreAerCap #aviationfinance #aircraftleasing pic.twitter.com/4g25KZ82KL
“The addition of these aircraft will help us achieving our target of building a larger, modern and more fuel-efficient fleet. This will in turn enable us to deliver our products and services in a wide network of routes in the Nordics and to European destinations,” said Geir Karlsen, CEO of Norwegian.
The Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft is 14% more fuel-efficient compared to its previous generation jets. Therefore, the new addition to its fleet will help Norwegian meet its target to reduce carbon emissions by 45% in 2030 compared to 2010, according to the statement.
“The addition of these aircraft will help Norwegian grow their operations whilst maintaining its commitment to operate a highly competitive, fuel-efficient fleet of aircraft,” said Peter Anderson, chief commercial officer of AerCap.
Norwegian ended the 2021 financial year with a significant improvement in operating figures. The carrier, which exited bankruptcy protection with the completion of its restructuring process in May 2021, managed to make a pre-tax profit of NOK117 million ($13 million) in Q4 2021.