WestJet to get three more Boeing 737 MAX 8 jets

The WestJet Group confirmed it would acquire three additional used Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft, from SMBC Aviation Capital,  in addition to the six second-hand Boeing 737 MAX 8 earlier this summer.

"With our longstanding partner SMBC, we are thrilled to be adding three more Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft to our growing fleet as we execute upon our mission of providing affordable air travel options to our guests," said Mike Scott, WestJet Group, Executive Vice-President and Chief Financial Officer.

The acquisition of nine leased Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft in the last six months allows the airline to bolster its plan for fleet growth, while managing delays for direct-from-factory aircraft. Leveraging these additional aircraft and subsequent capacity expansion, the WestJet Group will continue enhancing critical air access for its guests across its growing network.

The Australian domestic airline industry is on the cusp of a remarkable transformation believes Koala Airlines....

While the tangled mess of the collapse of Rex Airlines is sorted out by administrators and the painful memories of Bonza are still jarring, yet another airline is getting ready to take to the skies above Australia. 

The Koala Airlines team has been crafting a fresh approach to aviation, inspired by a passion for service, innovation and customer experience. The carrier's strategy will fundamentally differ from previous entrants in a domestic market which has been long dominated by two major airlines since the Australian government first introduced the Two Airline Policy in 1952.

Under this protectionist policy, only two airlines were allowed to operate flights between state capital cities and between capitals and nominated regional centres. It was not until 1990 that the government relaxed the policy to allow competition in the market.  While many new low-cost carriers have entered the market since 1990 and focused solely on offering cheaper fares, almost entirely leading to unsustainable competition, Koala is taking a more innovative route. The airline's goal is to carve out a unique niche that enhances the industry landscape without disrupting existing standards by creating a lasting impact on the industry.

Koala is currently finalising negotiations to acquire a fleet that will enable our Air Operators Certificate to be upgraded with the new aircraft type - Boeing 737 MAX jets.  This step is crucial in solidifying its operational capabilities and readiness to serve customers with the highest standards.

Having established the foundation, Koala is dedicated to advancing this vision with its core management team that is implementing the strategic plan. The carrier is led by Bill Astling Founding CEO, supported by Phil Le Liu, Director, Sally Spring MBA, Chief Operating Officer, Keith Bolshaw, Kelsie Johnston,  Unni Nair,  Scott Kefford and Anton Meryl Nithianandan.

More Boeing 737 MAX jets for LOT

BOC Aviation Limited has confirmed the placement of three Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft with new customer LOT Polish Airlines. All three aircraft are powered by CFM LEAP-1B engines and are scheduled for delivery in 2025.

“We are delighted to welcome LOT, Poland’s flag carrier and one of the most recognisable Polish brands, to our customer base. As a global lessor, we are constantly building relationships with airline customers around the world and diversifying our lessee network,” said Steven Townend, Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director. “These aircraft will support the LOT growth strategy with one of the world’s most popular and fuel-efficient single-aisle jets.”

LOT is a modern carrier connecting Central and Eastern Europe with the rest of the world. LOT’s destinations include direct long-haul flights to the United States, Canada, China, Japan and South Korea. The Polish carrier has consistently increased its number of flights to those destinations, while strengthening its position in Central and Eastern Europe. It operates its long-haul flights with the Boeing 787 Dreamliner, one of the most advanced wide-body aircraft in the world. Operational since 1929, LOT is the 12th oldest airline worldwide and is one of the most internationally recognisable Polish brands.

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The end of Virgin Australia's Cairns-Tokyo service is in view

Virgin Australia has announced it will cease operating its once daily flight between Cairns and Tokyo, Haneda from 24 February 2025 becasue passenger numbers have not rebounded enough following the COVID pandemic. The route is flown using a Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft, which will be redeployed on domestice flights from 25 February.

The airline first launched its Cairns-Tokyo, Haneda services in June 2023. However, a below forecast recovery of visitors travelling from Japan to Australia due to sustained weakness in the Japanese Yen, has impacted demand for the services, rendering the route commercially unsustainable.   

There are approximately 2,000 impacted customers travelling with Virgin Australia to Tokyo, Haneda after 24 February 2025. Customers who booked for travel after 24 February via virginaustralia.com will be contacted by email within the next 24 hours to arrange a refund of their booking.  

Macquarie AirFinance puts on order for 20 Boeing 737 MAX jets

Boeing and Macquarie AirFinance announced this week that the lessor has made its first direct order for Boeing aeroplanes. The purchase of 20 737 MAX 8s doubles Macquarie AirFinance's existing 737 MAX 8 order book, which it acquired from ALAFCO Aviation Lease and Finance Co. in 2023.  By expanding its 737 MAX portfolio, Macquarie AirFinance will scale up its fleet of the poorly designed aircraft that continue to suffer safety issues following two fatal crashes. 

"The continued expansion and renewal of our fleet underscores our confidence in the strong future growth prospects of global commercial air transport. This order increases our existing OEM order book to 86 firm aircraft and will enable our airline partners to access the most modern, fuel-efficient aircraft," said Eamonn Bane, CEO of Macquarie AirFinance.

"As single-aisle fleet renewals gain momentum, Macquarie AirFinance's choice of the 737-8 will allow its customers to phase out older aeroplanes and operate the industry's most fuel-efficient jets," said Stephanie Pope, president and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes. "Lessors such as Macquarie AirFinance are key partners to Boeing and our airline customers, supporting aeroplane deliveries and offering financial solutions to carriers that want to renew or grow their fleets with the 737 MAX."

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Alaska Airlines announces major expansion of First Class and Premium seating

This expansion will add 1.3 million premium seats annually to Alaska's mainline fleet, providing passengers with even more opportunities to upgrade to a premium experience  Starting in September, Alaska Airlines will begin rolling out additional First Class and Premium Class seating across more than 200 aircraft, including 900ERs, 800s and MAX9s. This expansion will add 1.3 million premium seats annually to the mainline fleet. Earlier this year, the carrier successfully retrofitted its entire regional fleet, adding 400,000 Premium Class seats to the Embraer E175 aircraft.

New seating configuration 737-800 (current—new)

New seating configuration 737-900ER / MAX9 (current—new)

More First Class and Premium seating   By increasing the number of seats available in these classes, Alaska are making it easier than ever for passengers to upgrade while also meeting the growing demand for premium seating.  First Class  In partnership with RECARO, Alaska Airlines further enhances its offering to provide passengers with ultimate comfort seats that are featured in the new First Class seats that have been installed on the Boeing 737-800 fleet. These new seats offer the most legroom and features include a calf rest, new seatback device holder, 6-way headrest with neck support and USB-C charging capabilities.

Premium Class & Main Cabin  In Main Cabin and Premium Class of the 737-800 fleet, passengers will continue to experience comfort and convenience at every seat with improved features, including new device holders with built in cup holders, USB-C charging and a 6-way headrest with dedicated neck support.  As the airline modifies the 737-900ER fleet to increase Premium Class by converting six of the Main Cabin seats, these aircraft will receive an interior refresh, bringing modern touches like device holders in the main cabin to the backbone of our fleet. All 737 MAX 9 aircraft, among the newest in the fleet, will also get six additional seats converted to their Premium cabins, enhancing the comfort and luxury the airline offers customers.

Aviation Capital Group expands order for Boeing 737 MAX portfolio by 35 Jets

 Boeing and Aviation Capital Group LLC have inked a deal today for an order of 35 737 MAX jets, including 16 737 MAX 8 and 19 of the larger 737 MAX10 variant. Following an incremental 737 MAX order last year, this new purchase increases ACG's 737 MAX commitment to 82 orders as ACG seeks to profit from growing travel demand. 

"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," said Thomas Baker, Chief Executive Officer and President at ACG. "We look forward to supporting our airline customers throughout the world with these highly versatile and fuel-efficient aircraft."

The 737 MAX 8 can carry up to 210 passengers based on the tightest configuration, while the 737 MAX 10, the largest 737 MAX model is said to accommodate 230 passengers with a range of 3,100 nautical miles.  

"Today's repeat order demonstrates market demand for the 737 MAX family of aeroplanes 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 aeroplane technology to its airline customers."

Aviation Capital Group is one of the world's premier full-service aircraft asset managers with over 480 owned, managed and committed aircraft as of March 31, 2024, leased to roughly 90 airlines in approximately 45 countries. It specializes in commercial aircraft leasing and provides certain aircraft asset management services and aircraft financing solutions for third parties. It was founded in 1989 and is a wholly owned subsidiary of Tokyo Century Corporation.

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Phoenix Aviation Capital and AIP Capital form agreement to buy 10 CFM LEAP-1B engines

Phoenix Aviation Capital, a full-service aircraft lessor, and AIP Capital, a global aviation asset management and investment firm, today announced an agreement to acquire a portfolio of ten LEAP-1B engines from CFM International*.

The agreement demonstrates the strong relationship between the parties and CFM and will support the lessor's growth and mission of meeting the fleet and financing needs of its global airline customers. The state-of-the-art LEAP-1B engines are scheduled to be delivered between Q3 and Q4 2024.

Phoenix is managed exclusively by AIP and benefits from AIP's extensive experience in aviation and leadership. Mathew Adamo, Managing Partner at AIP, who serves on Phoenix's Board commented, "This order reflects a milestone in both AIP Capital's and Phoenix's growth strategy. We are excited to further expand our relationship with CFM and recognize the reliability, fuel efficiency, and performance of the LEAP engine family."

"We are proud to deepen our relationship with Phoenix Aviation Capital," said Gaël Méheust, president and CEO of CFM International. "This agreement bolsters our shared mission to reduce aviation's environmental impact and to lower operational costs for airlines through advanced technology and exceptional service and support."

The agreement bolsters Phoenix's portfolio which is comprised of new generation aircraft on long-term leases to a diversified customer base of airlines across the globe. Additionally, Phoenix has an orderbook of 30 737 MAX 8 aircraft with Boeing.

*CFM International is a 50/50 joint company between GE Aerospace and Safran Aircraft Engines.

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AIP Capital is a full-service aviation asset manager focused on opportunities in the aviation sector. AIP Capital believes its unique capital structure, relationships, and hands-on approach enable the firm to provide creative and bespoke solutions for airlines and other counterparties across market cycles.
Phoenix Aviation Capital is a full-service aircraft lessor focused on financing modern, in-demand aircraft and is dedicated to meeting the financing needs of its airline customers across the globe. 

Alaska Airlines honours US military with newest aircraft livery

As the USA celebrates Independence Day, Alaska Airlines has unveiled its latest livery as a tribute to service members past and present. 

In partnership with Boeing, the airline was proud to unveil the specially designed “Honoring Those Who Serve” aircraft. The design, which is almost identical to three other jets, features a new patriotic paint scheme with symbolic imagery representing all six branches of the US Armed Forces: Air Force, Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, and Space Force.

From its star-spangled design to the heartfelt message emblazoned on its side, this aircraft is a flying tribute to the courage and dedication of those who serve today, and those who served in the past. 

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CDB Aviation leases two new 737 MAX 8 jets to TAROM

CDB Aviation has confirmed the signing of lease agreements for two Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft with a new customer, Romanian flag air carrier TAROM.

The two MAX aircraft, leased from CDB Aviation’s direct orderbook with Boeing, will support TAROM’s fleet modernization process, which is aimed to result in a standardized fleet and allow for a significant reduction in costs. The aircraft will be configured with 189 seats and scheduled to be delivered to the airline between December 2025 and January 2026.

“We look forward to forging a strong relationship with our newest European customer and one of the region’s oldest airlines, TAROM. Since its inception seven decades ago, TAROM is currently the longest operating airline of Romania, having played a central role in advancing the country’s aviation industry and its regional connectivity. With these MAX aircraft, TAROM will be able to continue to enhance its market position, while building one of the youngest fleets in the region,” commented Jie Chen, CDB Aviation’s Chief Executive Officer.

“We are thrilled to partner with CDB Aviation in our ongoing plans to modernize TAROM’s fleet, and the role of these two new Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft is to help us enhance operational efficiency and provide our passengers with a superior flying experience. We value CDB Aviation’s expertise and support for this investment, an important part of our company's development plan, in which the fleet update is a key element in bringing about a better commercial performance and growth outlook, and we are looking forward to introducing them in our regular flight planning,” commented Costin Iordache, TAROM’s Chief Executive Officer.

TAROM Romanian Air Transport was established in 1954 and operates under the authority of the Ministry of Transport, being a member of the SkyTeam Alliance since June 25, 2010. The Romanian flag carrier owns a fleet of 18 aircraft and has in its portfolio a number of 70 destinations operated with its own aircrafts or served by its code share partners. 

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Air Canada to lease more Boeing 737 MAX 8 jets

The Canadian airline Air Canada has completed a lease deal with BOC Aviation Limited for eight Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft.

The airline is deliberately dropping the MAX from its publicity to obfuscate details from the flying public as to the model of aircraft they are passengers on. The eight aircraft are scheduled for delivery in 2024 and will undergo special safety-required modifications before entering service in 2025. The aircraft will initially operate with a single Economy class layout until they are reconfigured to fully match the onboard experience our customers enjoy in Air Canada's narrow-body, two-cabin standard at a later date. All eight aircraft will be powered by CFM LEAP-1B engines.

"We look forward to these aircraft entering into service next year, upon the completion of some required modifications," said Michael Rousseau, President and Chief Executive Officer of Air Canada.   

"We are pleased that Canada's flag carrier, Air Canada, is working with us once again as it strengthens its network," said Steven Townend, Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of BOC Aviation. 

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The Boeing 737 MAX 8 type has experienced a very troubled history, it is an aircraft that has been beset by significant flaws that led to two fatal crashes in 2018 and 2019, resulting in a total of 346 fatalities. 

WestJet Group welcomes two additional Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft to growing fleet

          The WestJet Group today announced it will acquire two additional Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft, one from Aviation Capital Group and one from High Ridge Aviation, to be integrated into the airline's operations in 2024. Earlier this month, the WestJet Group announced the addition of three Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft in partnership with BOC Aviation Limited and a Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft with AerDragon. Today's announcement adds to the growing list of new-to-WestJet aircraft joining the Group's fleet this year.

"In partnership with Aviation Capital Group and High Ridge Aviation, we are thrilled to add these aircraft to our Boeing 737 MAX family, as we further reaffirm our mission of providing affordable air travel to Canadians," said Mike Scott, WestJet Group, Executive Vice-President and Chief Financial Officer. "Today's fleet additions are critical to the execution of our ambitious growth strategy as we work to provide more critical air access to Canadians."

While WestJet guests will benefit from the additional capacity across the airline's network, the aircraft will not immediately reflect the interior cabin experience, synonymous with the WestJet Group. Updating and refreshing the interior cabins of the aircraft will be prioritized as part of the airlines' existing fleet reconfiguration plans, to ensure a consistent experience for guests across its operation as soon as possible. 

"ACG is proud to expand its partnership with WestJet and to partake in its ambitious growth plans," said Alan Mangels, Vice President of Marketing for ACG. "The addition of this latest technology aircraft will not only support WestJet's growth objectives but will also do so in an environmentally friendly and fuel-efficient way."

"We're pleased to support the fleet needs of our long-time friends at WestJet, where our team's connections date back a quarter century," shares Greg Conlon, CEO of High Ridge Aviation. "Our highly experienced team and extensive relationships throughout the industry enable us to skillfully manage our fleet."

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Arajet takes delivery of its 10th Boeing 737 MAX

Arajet’s 10th Boeing 737 MAX arrived today in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic as the airline continues to grow its fuel-efficient fleet. This 737 MAX 8 delivery through a lessor supports Arajet’s growth strategy throughout the Americas as the airline plans to more than double its routes in the next few years.

“This tenth aircraft is unique, not only because it has a special Dominican ribbon painted on the fuselage, but because it will increase the number of connections we make with the continent. We are reaffirming our commitment to democratize the skies and be able to connect all our countries with the lowest possible prices,” said Victor Pacheco Méndez, CEO and founder of Arajet.

Since launching in 2022, Arajet has grown its all-737 MAX fleet to serve 23 destinations in 16 countries, including Canada, Mexico and Argentina. Arajet’s performance earned it recognition as the Startup Airline of the year at the World Aviation Summit in 2023.

Three more 737 MAX 8s for WestJet

Additional aircraft expected to join WestJet Group operations in 2024, supporting capacity growth plans 

The WestJet Group announced it will acquire an additional three Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft from BOC Aviation Limited. The three aircraft are expected to integrate into the WestJet Group's fleet and operations in 2024, following the completion of leasing agreements.

"We have an ambitious growth strategy, and the expansion of our fleet is critical to our mission of providing affordable air travel to Canadians," said Mike Scott, WestJet Group, Executive Vice-President and Chief Financial Officer. "Working with a trusted partner like BOC Aviation supports us in meeting our growth expectations for 2024."

While WestJet guests will benefit from the additional capacity across the airline's network, the aircraft will not immediately reflect the interior cabin experience, synonymous with the WestJet Group. Updating and refreshing the interior cabins of the aircraft will be prioritized as part of the airlines' existing fleet reconfiguration plans, to ensure a consistent experience for guests across its operation as soon as possible.

BOC Aviation agrees lease deal on three Boeing 737 MAX 8 jets to WestJet

BOC Aviation Limited has confirmed the placement of three used Boeing 737- MAX 8 aircraft with longstanding customer the WestJet Group. All three aircraft are powered by CFM LEAP-1B engines and are scheduled for delivery in 2024.

“We are delighted to welcome WestJet, one of Canada’s leading airlines, back to our customer base. This deal is a testament to our long-term relationship and our ability to evolve and meet our airline customers’ fleet expansion needs,” said Steven Townend, Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director. “With this transaction, we have provided WestJet with one of the world’s most popular single-aisle jets, delivering from our fleet that comprises 77% latest technology aircraft.”

“WestJet has an ambitious growth strategy, and working with a trusted partner like BOC Aviation supports us in meeting our growth expectations for 2024,” said Mike Scott, WestJet Group, Executive Vice-President and Chief Financial Officer. “We are seeing the benefits of our strategy come to life across our network and the consistent growth of our fleet capacity is essential to maintaining our momentum.”

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The WestJet Group adds three additional Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft to fleet

Additional aircraft expected to join WestJet Group operations in 2024, supporting capacity growth plans 

The WestJet Group announced it will acquire an additional three Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft from BOC Aviation Limited. The three aircraft are expected to integrate into the WestJet Group's fleet and operations in 2024, following the completion of leasing agreements.

"We have an ambitious growth strategy, and the expansion of our fleet is critical to our mission of providing affordable air travel to Canadians," said Mike Scott, WestJet Group, Executive Vice-President and Chief Financial Officer. "Working with a trusted partner like BOC Aviation supports us in meeting our growth expectations for 2024."

While WestJet guests will benefit from the additional capacity across the airline's network, the aircraft will not immediately reflect the interior cabin experience, synonymous with the WestJet Group. Updating and refreshing the interior cabins of the aircraft will be prioritized as part of the airlines' existing fleet reconfiguration plans, to ensure a consistent experience for guests across its operation as soon as possible.

"We are delighted to support our long-term customer, WestJet, in its network growth," said Steven Townend Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of BOC Aviation. "Our provision of latest technology, fuel efficient aircraft will assist WestJet as it expands its business in the most cost-effective fashion."

"Two years ago, we set out a plan for growth that would maintain our position as both Canada's national leisure champion and western home carrier, while enhancing domestic connectivity from coast-to-coast," continued Scott. "We are seeing the benefits of our strategy come to life across our network and the consistent growth of our fleet capacity is essential to maintaining our momentum."

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