Icelandair 737MAX

Iceland’s flag carrier Icelandair has finalised a $1.6bn firm order with Boeing for 16 single-aisle 737 MAX aircraft with an option to acquire an additional eight jetliners.

The order, which includes 737 MAX 8s and 9s, was first announced as a commitment for 12 airliners in December 2012.

"The 737 MAX will complement our Boeing 757 operations seamlessly and allow us to continue our route expansion in the most fuel-efficient manner."

With this announcement, the total number of firm orders for 737 MAX 8s and MAX 9s to date reaches 1,180.

Icelandair president and chief executive officer Bjorgolfur Johannsson said: "The 737 MAX will complement our Boeing 757 operations seamlessly and allow us to continue our route expansion in the most fuel-efficient manner."

Boeing is expected to deliver the first aeroplane from the order in the first half of 2018.

Powered by CFM International LEAP-1B engines, 737 MAX will be the latest variant that builds on the strengths of Next-Generation 737 and is scheduled to enter service in 2017.

Featuring aerodynamic improvements to the tail and new advanced technology winglet, the 737 MAX will reduce fuel consumption and CO2 emissions by 13%; according to the Chicago-based aircraft manufacturer, it will offer an 8% lower operating costs, compared with rival aircraft in the single-aisle segment.

Boeing Commercial Airplanes European sales vice president Todd Nelp said that the 737 MAX addition to Icelandair’s all-Boeing fleet would enable the carrier to expand its operations across Europe and North America with increased fuel efficiency, route flexibility and passenger comfort.

At present, Icelandair has an all-Boeing fleet of 23 757 jets and operates flights to a network of more than 35 international destinations.

Image: Icelandair stated that the new 737 MAX will complement its Boeing 757 operations seamlessly. Photo: courtesy of Boeing.

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