Boeing is finally enjoying some positive news after aircraft lessor Aviation Capital Group (ACG) expanded its order for 737 MAX jets.
The two companies announced on July 15, 2024, that ACG, a subsidiary of Tokyo Century Group, had finalized an order for 16 Boeing 737 MAX 8s and 19 737 MAX 10s.
ACG is now committed to 82 737 MAX jets after the firm secured a further seven 737-8s and six 737-10s in September 2023, which at the time boosted its order for the single-aisle variant to 47 aircraft.
“This firm order for additional 737 MAX aircraft enhances the strategic value of ACG’s order book, supports a key pillar of our growth strategy and reinforces our commitment to invest in modern and fuel-efficient aircraft technology,” Thomas Baker, CEO and President at ACG, said “We look forward to supporting our airline customers throughout the world with these highly versatile and fuel-efficient aircraft.”
The Boeing 737 MAX 10 is still making progress through the certification process after it was bogged down with issues relating to anti-ice system that also affected the 737 MAX 7.
“Today’s repeat order demonstrates market demand for the 737 MAX family of airplanes as ACG’s customers seek to operate flexible, fuel-efficient fleets,” said Brad McMullen, Boeing Senior Vice President of Commercial Sales and Marketing. “ACG has been a longstanding, valued partner on the 737 MAX program, and we look forward to working together to deliver the latest airplane technology to its airline customers.”
The 737-8 can carry up to 210 passengers based on configuration with a range of 3,500 nautical miles, while the 737-10, the largest 737 MAX model, seats up to 230 passengers with a range of 3,100 nautical miles.
ACG has over 480 aircraft on its books as of March 31, 2024, with lease agreements in place with around 90 operators in about 45 countries.
On July 16, 2024, Boeing also announced that Emirates SkyCargo, the cargo segment of the Dubai flag carrier, has placed a $1 billion order for an extra five Boeing 777 Freighters.
