Southwest Airlines and Boeing have confirmed that the US carrier will purchase an additional 107 737 MAX 7 aircraft, bringing its total order for the variant to more than 300.
The announcement, made on October 26, 2023, means that Southwest’s orderbook with Boeing for the 737 MAX aircraft has swelled to over 500 jets. as it looks bolster its fleet with both 737-7 and 737-8s.
“We have a long history with Boeing, dating back more than 50 years to the day we commenced service with three Boeing 737 aircraft serving three cities,” Bob Jordan, president and Chief Executive Officer of Southwest Airlines, said. “They’re part of our history and part of our future as we continue to recognize the many efficiencies and cost savings of a single fleet.”
The 737-7, which is still awaiting certification, has the longest range in its class, capable of flying up to 3,800 nautical miles and carrying up to 172 passengers.
Southwest has been enticed by the 737 MAX’s “enhanced environmental performance”, which allows carriers to reduce fuel use compared to the previous generation of planes.
The 737 MAX is also quieter, generating a smaller noise footprint than the older jets it will replace.
“With the world’s largest all-Boeing, all-737 fleet, Southwest is counting on the exceptional efficiency and reliability of the 737 MAX family,” Stan Deal, president and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes, said. “The 737-7 is pivotal to Southwest’s long-term fleet modernization strategy, and we are honored to have the airline’s continued trust in us to deliver its future fleet.”
According to ch-avaition.com, Southwest currently has a total of 784 planes active in its fleet, comprising 205 737-8s, 380 737-700s and 199 737-800s.
