Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG) has announced a major order for Boeing 737 MAX aircraft to modernize its fleet. The agreement includes a firm order for 18 Boeing 737-8 and 12 Boeing 737-10 jets, as well as options for an additional 30 aircraft.
This order, initially booked in January 2025 and previously listed as unidentified on Boeing’s website, will allow Malaysia Airlines to introduce lie-flat seats on select routes. The new aircraft will also help the airline meet increasing travel demand in Southeast Asia. Boeing projects that the region’s airplane fleet will grow by nearly 250% over the next two decades.
According to Izham Ismail, Group Managing Director of MAG, this investment will enable the airline to offer cutting-edge premium cabin products and state-of-the-art technology.
“The addition of these new airplanes will not only enhance our fleet’s efficiency and increase seating capacity, but allow us to elevate the overall inflight experience, with our passengers’ needs at the forefront,” he added.
The Boeing 737 has been a mainstay of Malaysia Airlines’ single-aisle fleet since 1969. Currently, the airline operates a fleet of 50 737 jets. Dr. Brendan Nelson, President of Boeing Global, noted the long-standing partnership with Malaysia and Boeing’s commitment to the country’s aerospace sector.
Meanwhile, Brad McMullen, Boeing’s Senior Vice President of Commercial Sales and Marketing, highlighted the operational flexibility, environmental performance, and additional capacity the 737-8 and 737-10 will provide to Malaysia Airlines.
“We are honored to build upon our valued partnership with Malaysia Aviation Group and support them in modernizing their fleet. Adding the 737-8 and 737-10 will equip Malaysia Airlines with the operational flexibility, environmental performance and additional capacity they need to better serve a growing number of passengers,” McMullen said.
The new 737 MAX aircraft is said to reduce fuel use and emissions by 20% compared to older models.
Boeing’s Commercial Market Outlook forecasts a tripling of passenger air traffic across Southeast Asia in the next 20 years. Single-aisle jets, such as the 737 MAX family, are expected to represent approximately 80% of the more than 4,700 new aircraft deliveries to the region through 2043.
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