Boeing and BOC Aviation have confirmed a significant order involving 50 new 737-8 jets, aiming to expand BOC Aviation's existing 737 MAX portfolio to a total of 215 aircraft within the 737-8 and 737-9 categories. This new acquisition increases BOC Aviation's pending Boeing orders to 139 unfilled units. Currently, the lessor operates 69 Boeing 737 MAX planes leased to over 15 different airlines globally.
"Our strong partnership with Boeing has led to this 50-aircraft order for the fuel-efficient Boeing 737-8 aircraft. With this transaction, we have commitments to purchase over 140 of these aircraft, which is the largest Boeing orderbook position in our history," expressed Steven Townend, Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of BOC Aviation. He explained that the order intends to support airline customers with advanced aircraft to accommodate future fleet growth.
With projections indicating that single-aisle jets will make up 75% of global deliveries over two decades, leasing companies endeavor to expand their order capacities to help airlines scale their fleets and phase out older planes. Lessors have ordered over 1,200 737 MAX jets, replacing up to 300 Next-Generation 737s annually that are expected to retire by the decade's end.
"BOC Aviation's latest investment in the 737-8 demonstrates the confidence lessors have in this airplane to meet continued air travel demand and improve fuel efficiency," noted Brad McMullen, Boeing's senior vice president of Commercial Sales and Marketing. He added that the 737-8 offers versatility and operational savings attributed to its lower fuel consumption.
The 737-8 model, configured to seat between 162 to 210 passengers, with a 3,500 nautical mile range, holds a strong position as a versatile option capable of serving short and medium-haul routes effectively.