WJI-MAX8

Canada-based low-cost carrier WestJet Airlines has signed a preliminary agreement to acquire 65 737 Max, consisting of 40 737 Max 8 and 25 737 Max 7 valued at $6.3bn at list prices, as it seeks to optimise and modernise its fleet with more fuel-efficient aircraft.

The 737 Max series is scheduled to enter production in 2015 with delivery to customers expected to commence in September 2017.

The 737 Max, which is the latest version of Boeing’s top-selling 737 jetliner, is set to compete with the rival European aircraft manufacturer Airbus’s A320neo.

Powered by the new Leap-1B engines from CFM International, the 737 Max will feature a redesigned tail cone and the Boeing designed advanced technology winglet to reduce fuel use.

According to Boeing, the 737 Max reduces fuel burn and CO2 emissions by 13% and offers an 8% operating cost advantage to operators.

WestJet plans to replace 15 of its existing Next-Generation 737 airliners on order, currently scheduled for delivery between December 2014 and 2018, with 737 Max aircraft, for a net increase of 50 committed deliveries to its fleet plan.

"This pending order reinforces our strategy of maintaining the flexibility in our fleet plan while enabling us to introduce new fuel-efficient technology and enhance our inflight guest experience."

With the latest pending order, the carrier will receive a total of 92 737 aircraft, which includes commitments for the proposed Boeing 737 Max 7 and Max 8 aircraft with substitution rights to the 737 Max 9, scheduled for delivery from 2017 through 2027.

WestJet president and CEO Gregg Saretsky said: "This pending order reinforces our strategy of maintaining the flexibility in our fleet plan while enabling us to introduce new fuel-efficient technology and enhance our inflight guest experience."

WestJet expects to finalise a definitive purchase agreement prior to 30 September.

Boeing stated that the deal will be posted as a firm order on its orders and deliveries website once it is finalised.

Boeing Commercial Airplanes North America Sales vice-president Brad McMullen said: "The 737 MAX’s efficiency, reliability and passenger amenities will be a successful combination with WestJet famous customer service."

Image: With the latest pending order, WestJet will receive a total of 92 737 aircraft. Photo: courtesy of Boeing.

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