Indian carrier SpiceJet has receieved the first of up to 205 737 MAX aircraft from Boeing.

The new single-aisle aircraft should help SpiceJet expand and standardise its fleet, as well as reduce fuel costs per plane by $1.5 million annually.

SpiceJet’s complete fleet of 737 MAX aircraft will also release 750,000t less CO2 and save up to 240,000t of fuel per year, which may lead to annual savings of $317m, depending on certain rules and configurations.

SpiceJet chairman and managing director Ajay Singh said: “The induction of our first MAX is a huge milestone in SpiceJet’s journey.

“These new airplanes will enable us to open new routes, while reducing fuel and engineering costs, as well as emissions.

“The 737 MAX will dramatically reduce noise pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. Passengers will benefit from a large number of premium seats and, for the first time in India, broadband internet on board.”

“The 737 MAX for SpiceJet is the perfect airplane for this market and it will become a key ingredient for long-term success.”

In January last year, SpiceJet agreed to purchase up to 205 aircraft from Boeing as part of a deal potentially worth $22bn.

The deal covered 100 new 737 MAX 8s, 13 additional 737 MAXs and the option to buy 50 more jets.

Boeing commercial sales and marketing senior vice-president Ihssane Mounir said: “India is a fast growing market for commercial airplanes and services.

“The 737 MAX for SpiceJet is the perfect airplane for this market and it will become a key ingredient for long-term success, especially as oil prices continue to put pressure on airlines.

“The market-leading efficiency and reliability of the MAX will pay immediate dividends for SpiceJet’s commercial operations.”

In addition, SpiceJet selected Boeing Global Services’ tailored flight simulator and maintenance training programme for its new aircraft.

The programme is designed to train SpiceJet’s pilots and mechanics in all areas of 737 MAX flight operations.