Alaska Airlines orders 52 Boeing 737 MAX jets

Alaska Airlines is expanding its Boeing 737 MAX fleet with an order for 52 airplanes, exercising options for an additional 42 737-10 and 10 737-9 jets. The order is worth more than $7 billion at list prices.

"This investment secures aircraft to optimize our growth through the next decade, which we know will be a formidable competitive advantage," said Alaska Airlines CEO Ben Minicucci. "We're proud of the strong financial foundation that uniquely positions Alaska to make this commitment to our future, and of the fantastic partnership we share with our hometown aircraft manufacturer at Boeing."

The 737 MAX family offers the carrier enhanced reliability and improved fuel efficiency to help meet its short- and long-term growth strategy. With the new agreement, Alaska's unfilled orderbook for 737 MAXs totals more than 100 jets. By the end of 2023, the airline expects to have an all-Boeing mainline fleet.

"As Alaska Airlines sustainably grows its fleet, the 737 MAX family offers environmental performance and flexibility to expand service across its route network," said Stan Deal, president and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes. "Built in our Renton factory near Alaska's headquarters in Washington state, these airplanes will carry passengers to destinations for years to come."

Alaska Airlines currently operates 35 737-9 airplanes, which the airline configures to seat 178 passengers. The airline will use the 737-10, Boeing's largest single-aisle jet, to provide further route flexibility and service. The 737-10 can seat 204 passengers in a two-class configuration with a range of 3,100nm. The 737 MAX reduces fuel use and emissions by 20% compared to the airplanes it replaces.