Singapore-based aircraft lessor BOC Aviation has finalised a deal with Boeing to buy ten 737 MAX 10 aircraft for an aggregate list price of $1.25bn.

In June, both companies signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) regarding the deal.

Deliveries of the new aircraft are scheduled to begin in 2021, reported New York Times.

BOC Aviation managing director and CEO Robert Martin said: “As a launch customer for the programme, this demonstrates the strength of our relationship with Boeing and will help us continue to deliver superior solutions for our airline customers.”

As the newest member of Boeing’s 737 MAX family of aircraft, the 737 MAX 10will be able to offer improved performance and efficiency, along with lower per-seat costs and an extended range that will help open up new destinations in the single-aisle market.

“As a launch customer for the programme, this demonstrates the strength of our relationship with Boeing and will help us continue to deliver superior solutions for our airline customers.”

The MAX 10 is equipped with new CFM International LEAP-1B engines, Advanced Technology winglets and other improvements.

In a separate development, Boeing has partnered with Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) to flight-test long-range light detection and ranging (LIDAR) technology next year.

The remote-sensing technology has the potential to help commercial airplane pilots better detect and avoid weather disturbances to improve flight safety.

JAXA’s LIDAR technology is also capable of measuring winds as much as 17.5km in front of aircraft and provides pilots with enough time to take suitable action to avoid wind shear and clear air turbulence.

Image: A Boeing 737 family aircraft in the sky. Photo: courtesy of Boeing.