150 More Boeings
In a joint announcement two weeks ago, Boeing and Akasa Air disclosed that the Indian carrier has made a follow-on order for 150 additional 737 MAX aircraft, solidifying its commitment to incorporating more fuel-efficient jets into its fleet. The order, which includes 737-10 airplanes and additional 737-8-200 jets, was unveiled at the Wings India 2024 airshow.
With plans to use the 737 MAX family for both domestic and international expansions in the coming years, Akasa Air, an all-737 operator in India, has already achieved a significant presence since commencing operations in 2022. The airline, boasting a fleet of 22 737 MAX jets, currently serves 18 destinations and has garnered around 4% of India's domestic market.
Vinay Dube, Founder and CEO of Akasa Air, expressed enthusiasm about the historic order, stating, “We are pleased to announce the acquisition of 150 new Boeing airplanes, increasing our total orders from Boeing to 226 jets. Beyond supporting our rapid domestic expansion, the efficiency and economic advantages of these new aircraft position Akasa to venture into international routes in the upcoming months. The reduced carbon emissions of the 737 MAX family align with our commitment to sustainable operations, offering our environmentally conscious passengers a more comfortable and eco-friendly flying experience. Sustainability is a core principle of our business, and we actively seek opportunities to minimize our environmental impact.”
Both variants of the 737 MAX are expected to enhance Akasa Air's capacity and range on both current and new routes, with a notable 20% reduction in fuel consumption and carbon emissions compared to older-generation airplanes.
Stephanie Pope, Boeing Chief Operating Officer, emphasized the significance of this milestone, saying, “This achievement underscores the strength of our partnership with Akasa Air and underscores the 737 MAX family's capability to align with the airline's operational priorities. The efficiency and versatility of the 737-10 and 737-8-200 will support Akasa Air’s expansion to meet the escalating demand for air travel in the region for years to come.”
As Akasa Air aims to extend its network in India and South Asia, Boeing's 2023 Commercial Market outlook foresees the delivery of 2,705 new commercial airplanes to the region over the next two decades, with nearly 90% of them being single-aisle jets.
The order, finalized in December 2023, had remained undisclosed on the Boeing Orders & Deliveries website.
