GIA 737 MAX

Garuda Indonesia has placed a $4.9bn order with Boeing for 50 737 MAX 8 aircraft to expand and upgrade its fleet to meet demands.

The order includes 46 737 MAX 8s, and conversion for four Next-Generation 737-800s in existing order to 737 MAX 8s.

Garuda Indonesia CEO Emirsyah Satar said: "The 737 MAX 8 represents a bright, efficient future for Garuda Indonesia.

"This order helps continue our commitment to offer the people of Indonesia and South East Asia the most comfortable, most efficient air travel in the region."

The Indonesian carrier currently has a fleet of 77 Boeing 737 airliners.

Boeing Commercial Airplanes Asia Pacific and India Sales senior vice-president Dinesh Keskar said: "The 737 MAX will be a great addition to the Garuda’s fleet.

"It will build on the strong tradition of service that Garuda Indonesia has established with the 737 family."

Powered by CFM International LEAP-1B engines, the 737 MAX features advanced technology winglets and other improvements that are claimed to offer improved efficiency, reliability and passenger comfort in the single-aisle market.

Boeing has signed 2,295 orders for 737 MAX from 47 customers worldwide to date.

The latest order comes after Ethiopian Airlines placed an order for 20 737 MAX 8s with options for a further 15 aircraft last month.

Image: An illustration of a 737 MAX 8 in Garuda Indonesia’s livery. Photo: courtesy of Boeing.

Defence Technology