Alaska Airlines boosts Boeing 737 MAX order to 68 jets

Alaska Airlines will boost its fleet with 23 more Boeing 737 MAX aircraft in addition to its original order of 32 MAXs as a part of the fleet modernization program.

On December 22, 2020, Alaska Airlines placed an additional order consisting of 23 Boeing 73 MAX 9s on its initial order for 32 jets which the airline committed to purchasing in 2012. The new agreement brings firm order to 68 aircraft while more additional options for future purchases, if fully exercised, would boost the fleet of Alaska Airlines to as many as 120 737 MAX airplanes. 

The airline said the deal would move it toward a more efficient, all-Boeing mainline fleet that would "enhance the guest experience, improve operational performance and support the company's growth," read in Boeing statement.

"We are extremely proud to be announcing this transformative agreement with Boeing. We believe in this airplane, we believe in our strong partnership with Boeing, and we believe in the future of Alaska Airlines and the incredible opportunities ahead as we climb our way out of this pandemic," said Brad Tilden, the CEO of Alaska Air Group.

In November 2020, Alaska Airlines signed a leasing agreement for 13 new 737 MAXs from Air Lease Corporation (ALC). Simultaneously, the airline sold 10 Airbus A320 jets which it had obtained through its acquisition of Virgin America in 2016. 

"With Alaska's industry-leading reputation for safety, sustainability, and customer service, we are honored they have chosen to invest in their future with a significant purchase of additional Boeing 737 airplanes," said Stan Deal, president, and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes. 

According to Boeing's statement, Alaska Airlines will configure the 737 MAX jets with 178 seats in a three-class configuration.