SEATTLE, March 29, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Boeing
[NYSE:BA] and Southwest Airlines today announced the carrier will
continue to build its business around the 737 MAX family with a new
order for 100 airplanes and 155 options across two models. The deal
comes after a multi-year fleet evaluation by Southwest and means
that Boeing and its suppliers could build more than 600 new 737 MAX
jets for the airline through 2031.
Southwest had been exploring options to modernize the largest
component of its fleet: the 737-700 that serves the airline's needs
for a 140-150 seat airplane. With the new agreement, the airline
reaffirmed the 737-7 as its preferred replacement and growth
airplane. The jet will complement the 737-8, which serves
Southwest's needs for a 175-seat model. Both 737 MAX family members
will reduce fuel use and carbon emissions by at least 14% compared
to the airplanes they replace, helping to improve operating costs
and environmental performance. Southwest said the solution allows
it to maintain the operational efficiencies of an all-Boeing 737
fleet to support its low-cost, point-to-point route network.
"Southwest Airlines has been operating the Boeing 737 series for
nearly 50 years, and the aircraft has made significant
contributions to our unparalleled success. Today's commitment to
the 737 MAX solidifies our continued appreciation for the aircraft
and confirms our plans to offer the Boeing 737 series of aircraft
to our Employees and Customers for years to come," said
Gary Kelly, Southwest's chairman and
CEO. "We are proud to continue our tradition of being the world's
largest operator of an all-Boeing fleet."
"In addition to supporting our efforts to operate sustainably
and efficiently, the 737 MAX offers Employees and Customers travel
comforts such as a quieter cabin, larger overhead bin spaces,
seating with adjustable headrests, and more galley space for
onboard service," said Mike Van de
Ven, Southwest's chief operating officer.
The new purchase agreement takes Southwest's order book to 200
737-7s and 180 737-8s, more than 30 of which have already been
delivered. Southwest will also have 270 options for either of the
two models, taking the carrier's direct-buy commitment to more than
600 airplanes. The airline also plans additional 737 MAX jets
through third-party lessors.
"Southwest Airlines has long been a leader and bellwether for
the airline industry and this order is a big vote of confidence for
commercial air travel. As vaccine distribution continues to
pick-up, people are returning to the skies and fueling hopes for a
full recovery and renewed growth across our industry," said
Stan Deal, president and CEO of
Boeing Commercial Airplanes. "We are deeply honored by Southwest's
continuing trust in Boeing and the 737. Their fleet decision today
brings more stability for our biggest commercial program and will
ensure that our entire 737 family will be building new airplanes
for Southwest for years to come."
As part of the agreement, Southwest will also expand its use of
Boeing's digital solutions to support its 737 MAX fleet, including
Airplane Health Management, Maintenance Performance Toolbox and
digital navigation charting tools. Boeing will also provide system
software upgrades and new wireless communications-enabling
equipment to support Southwest's operations.
About the 737 MAX Family
Designed and built in Renton,
Washington, the 737 MAX family delivers superior efficiency,
flexibility and reliability for the single-aisle airplane market.
The 737-7 can fly 3,850 nautical miles, the longest range in the
MAX family and 1,000 nautical miles farther than its predecessor.
This derivative seats a maximum of 172 passengers, compared to the
737-8's 210 maximum seats. The 737-8 can fly 3,550 nautical miles.
This additional capability allows airlines to offer new and more
direct routes for passengers.
Every 737 MAX features the new Boeing Sky Interior, highlighted
by modern sculpted sidewalls and window reveals, LED lighting that
enhances the sense of spaciousness and larger pivoting overhead
storage bins. Other technical specifications can be found at
www.boeing.com/commercial/737max/
About The Boeing Company
Boeing is the world's largest aerospace company and leading
provider of commercial airplanes, defense, space and security
systems, and global services. As a top U.S. exporter, the company
supports commercial and government customers in more than 150
countries. Building on a legacy of aerospace leadership, Boeing
continues to lead in technology and innovation, deliver for its
customers and invest in its people and future growth.
Contact:
Jessica Kowal
Boeing Communications
+1 (206) 660-6849
jessica.m.kowal@boeing.com
Joe Loeffler
Boeing Communications
+1 (425) 306-2145
joseph.o.loeffler@boeing.com
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SOURCE Boeing