Comair MAX8

South African low-cost carrier Comair has placed a firm order for eight 737 MAX 8s worth $830m, becoming the first African operator to select the aircraft variant.

The new aircraft will support the airline’s future fleet renewal and expansion programmes.

Comair CEO Erik Venter said that this investment in fleet upgrade is fundamental to the airlines’ business strategy of improving customer service, while ensuring a sustainable airline.

"Our decision to make this investment was not taken lightly and is a critical component in managing our exposure to the volatile fuel price and thus minimising the impact of the fuel price on airfares," Venter said.

Boeing Commercial Airplanes Africa, Latin America and Caribbean sales vice-president Van Rex Gallard said: "The unmatched operating economics of the 737 MAX make it the best airplane for Comair’s growth strategy."

"Our decision to make this investment was not taken lightly and is a critical component in managing our exposure to the volatile fuel price, minimising the impact of the fuel price on airfares."

Comair now has 12 Boeing aircraft on order, including eight 737 MAX 8s and four Next-Generation 737-800s, which are scheduled for delivery in 2015 and 2016.

Venter was quoted by Reuters as saying that the airline is expected to receive four 737 MAX 8s in 2019 with the remaining over the subsequent two years.

Johannesburg-headquartered, Comair is the franchise partner of British Airways, operating its local and regional Southern African routes.

The airline fleet comprises 25 Classic and Next-Generation 737s on its kulula.com and British Airways (operated by Comair) brands.

The 737 MAX was announced in 2011 and has logged more than 1,800 orders from global customers to date.

Image: Boeing illustration of 737 MAX 8s in the kulula.com and British Airways (operated by Comair) livery. Photo: courtesy of Boeing.

Defence Technology