Boeing and International Airlines Group (IAG) announced yesterday (Thursday) the purchase of 50 737-8-200s and 737-10s, with an option to buy a hundred more.
“The addition of new Boeing 737s is an important part of IAG’s short-haul fleet renewal,” said Luis Gallego, CEO of IAG, comprising British Airways, Iberia, Aer Lingus, and the low-cost carriers LEVEL and Vueling. “These latest-generation aircraft are more fuel-efficient than those they will replace and in line with our commitment to achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.”
The new 737-8-200s will enable IAG to configure their aircraft with up to 200 seats, thus increasing revenue and reducing fuel consumption.
As the largest model in the family, the 737-10 can fly up to 3,300 miles and seat up to 230 passengers in a single class. In addition, the fuel-efficient aircraft can cover 99% of narrow-body routes, including routes served by 757s.
“With the selection of the 737-8-200 and larger 737-10, IAG has invested in a sustainable and profitable future, as both variants will significantly lower operating costs and CO2 emissions,” added Stan Deal, President & CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes.
“Today’s agreement for up to 150 airplanes, including 100 options, is a welcome addition of the 737 to IAG’s short-haul fleets and reflects our commitment to support the Group’s continued network recovery and future growth with Boeing’s unrivaled family of airplanes.”
On average, the MAX 737 family is 14% more fuel-efficient than today’s most efficient Next-Gen 737s and 20% more efficient than the original Next-Gen 737s when they entered service.
