According to US planemaker Boeing, the Kazak carrier Air Astana intends to buy 30 737 Max 8 aircraft for its low-cost offshoot FlyArystan.
A letter of intent was signed at the Dubai Airshow, which if intent turns to an actual order would have a list value of $3.6 billion, but as everyone knows, no airline ever pays the full list price for any aircraft.
"Since its launch in May this year, FlyArystan has exceeded all expectations and it is clear that low-cost air travel has a great future in Kazakhstan and Central Asia," said Peter Foster, President and CEO of Air Astana. "Air Astana has had a strong relationship with Boeing ever since the airline started flying in 2002 with a pair of 737NGs. Today we operate both 757s and 767s and we believe that the MAX will provide a solid platform for the growth of FlyArystan throughout our region, once the aircraft has successfully returned to service".
Air Astana itself has a mixed fleet, which includes 15 Airbus aircraft, with more on the way and the airline has also had conversations with the European manufacturer about future aircraft requirements.
Since beginning operations in May 2002, Air Astana has steadily grown its business from its hubs in Almaty and Nur-Sultan, which used to be known as Astana. It has a route network including cities across Kazakhstan, Central Asia, Asia, China, Europe and Russia.
"Air Astana has become one of the leading airlines in Central Asia with its deep focus on safety, reliability, efficiency and customer service. At Boeing, we share those same values and are honoured to expand our partnership with the 737 MAX," said Stan Deal, president and chief executive officer of Boeing Commercial Airplanes.
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