SMBC Aviation Capital Orders 25 Boeing 737-8 Max Jets

SMBC Aviation Capital has announced a significant order for 25 Boeing 737-8s, further bolstering their 737 MAX fleet, which now totals 81 jets, with a strong focus on the market-leading 737-8.

With a global resurgence in travel demand, lessors like SMBC are actively seeking to enhance their single-aisle aircraft portfolios, offering airlines more fuel-efficient options that can seamlessly operate across diverse route networks.

Peter Barrett, CEO of SMBC Aviation Capital, expressed enthusiasm about the order, saying, “We are pleased to conclude this further order with our long-standing partner Boeing, and we look forward to working closely with them in the future. This transaction demonstrates our commitment to providing our customers with the latest technology and the most fuel-efficient aircraft, aligning with their sustainability goals and cost-reduction strategies. The demand for the 737 MAX is evident, and our expanded order positions SMBC Aviation Capital for future growth, coinciding with the global recovery in air travel.”

The Boeing 737-8 offers enhanced flexibility for airlines across their networks, achieving up to a 20% reduction in fuel consumption and emissions, on average. This translates to substantial annual CO2 emissions savings, with each aircraft contributing to the reduction of up to 8 million pounds of CO2 emissions compared to the airplanes it replaces. Boeing’s success in securing over 400 737 MAX family orders in 2023 highlights the industry’s confidence in this aircraft.

Stan Deal, president and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes, commented, “As one of the industry’s leading airplane lessors, SMBC’s decision to increase its 737 MAX backlog with an order for 25 737-8s reflects its confidence in the value this airplane brings to its airline customers. The 737-8’s remarkable versatility and unmatched fuel efficiency make it a vital asset for the leasing community, supporting airlines in their pursuit of sustainability and operational efficiency.”

The Boeing 737-8 can accommodate between 162 and 210 passengers, depending on the configuration, with a range of 3,500 nautical miles. It is a profitable choice for short- and medium-haul routes, aligning well with airlines’ evolving needs.

Based in the IFSC in Dublin Ireland, SMBC Aviation Capital is the second largest aircraft operating lease company globally by number of aircraft, with an owned, managed and committed fleet of just under 900 aircraft. The company focuses on the most technologically advanced, fuel efficient and narrowbody aircraft types, providing customers across the globe with the aircraft they need to successfully grow their businesses.

Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, msn.com, boeing.com