This new purchase of 25 737-8s expands lessor's 737 MAX portfolio to 81 jets
Boeing and SMBC Aviation Capital announced this week that the aircraft lessor is ordering 25 Boeing 737- MAX 8 jets which takes the SMBC's backlog to 81 MAX planes.
With travel demand surging around the globe, 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. This transaction demonstrates our commitment to provide our customers with the latest technology," said Peter Barrett, CEO of SMBC Aviation Capital. "Our customers have demonstrated clear, long-term demand for the 737 MAX and our expanded order pipeline positions SMBC Aviation Capital for future growth against the background of a strong global recovery in air travel."
"As one of the industry's leading aeroplane lessors, SMBC's decision to increase its 737 MAX backlog with an order for 25 737-8s shows its confidence in the value the aeroplane brings to its airline customers," said Stan Deal, president and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes.
Based in the IFSC in Dublin Ireland, SMBC Aviation Capital is the second largest aircraft operating lease company globally by number of aircraft, with an owned, managed and committed fleet of just under 900 aircraft. The company focuses on the most technologically advanced, fuel-efficient and narrowbody aircraft types, providing customers across the globe with the aircraft they need to successfully grow their businesses. Established in 2001, the company was acquired in 2012 by a consortium comprised of two of Japan's biggest companies SMFG and Sumitomo Corporation.