Arajet, the Dominican Republic’s first low-cost carrier, has taken delivery of its 10th Boeing 737-8 MAX aircraft (registered HI1101), further bolstering its fleet and ambitious expansion plans across the Americas.
The new MAX, leased from BOC Aviation, will play a key role in Arajet’s strategy to more than double its current network.
The airline currently serves 23 destinations in 16 countries, including Canada, Mexico, and Argentina.
“This tenth aircraft is unique, not only because it has a special Dominican ribbon painted on the fuselage, but because it will increase the number of connections we make with the continent. We are reaffirming our commitment to democratize the skies and be able to connect all our countries with the lowest possible prices,” said Victor Pacheco Méndez, CEO and founder of Arajet.
Arajet launched operations in 2022 and quickly gained recognition, being named Startup Airline of the Year at the 2023 World Aviation Summit.
The 737-8 boasts a range of up to 3,500 nautical miles, enabling Arajet to operate some of the longest routes in the Caribbean, efficiently connecting the region to North and South America.
“The versatility and efficiency of the 737 MAX supports Arajet’s commitment to provide safe, affordable travel for its customers,” said Mike Wilson, Boeing Vice President of Commercial Sales for Latin America and the Caribbean.
“By introducing the 10th 737-8 to its fleet, Arajet reaches an important milestone as the airline further connects the Dominican Republic with the rest of the Americas,” Wilson added.
According to Boeing, the 737 MAX is a fuel-efficient aircraft, using 20% less fuel than its predecessors. Additionally, it boasts a quieter operation with a 50% smaller noise footprint.
Boeing’s market forecast predicts that over 90% of future airplane demand in Latin America and the Caribbean will be for single-aisle jets like the 737 MAX, catering to popular routes, particularly those to North America.
The news comes as Boeing sees a slowdown in orders and production following a January incident where a side panel blew out on a MAX during a flight. The FAA has also imposed production caps on the aircraft.
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