Boeing and Alaska Airlines announce largest aircraft order in carrier’s history - Get updated on what's happening in tourism!

Boeing and Alaska Airlines have announced the largest aircraft order in the airline’s history, underlining Alaska Airlines’ long-term strategy to expand its domestic and international route networks. The agreement includes the purchase of 105 Boeing 737-10 aircraft, with options for 35 additional jets, as well as five Boeing 787 Dreamliners for long-haul operations.

The order increases Alaska Airlines’ total 737 MAX order book to 174 aircraft and supports a broad fleet renewal and growth strategy. It was announced as both companies mark 60 years of partnership, which began with the delivery of a Boeing 727 to the airline.

“This fleet investment builds on the strong foundation Alaska has created to support steady, scalable and sustained growth, and is another building block in executing our Alaska Accelerate strategic plan,” said Ben Minicucci, CEO and President of Alaska Air Group. The new aircraft, he added, will enable the airline to serve more destinations worldwide while offering guests the newest, most fuel-efficient and technologically advanced airplanes.

737-10 to modernise single-aisle fleet

The Boeing 737-10, the largest variant of the 737 MAX family, will form the backbone of Alaska Airlines’ future single-aisle fleet. The aircraft is designed to serve high-density routes efficiently, offering the lowest cost per seat among single-aisle airplanes. Its introduction will support fleet modernisation while maintaining commonality with Alaska Airlines’ existing Next-Generation 737 and 737 MAX aircraft.

Alaska Airlines currently operates 248 Boeing 737 aircraft, and the additional 737-10s are expected to provide greater network flexibility while replacing older planes.

Dreamliners to drive long-haul expansion

The order for five Boeing 787 Dreamliners underpins Alaska Airlines’ ambitions to grow its long-haul network. With their long range, fuel efficiency and passenger comfort, the widebody aircraft will enable the airline to expand services to Europe and Asia. Alaska Airlines currently has five 787s in service; the new order brings its total commitment for the type to 12 aircraft, supporting plans to serve at least 12 international destinations in the coming years.

“This is a historic airplane order underwritten by Alaska Airlines’ record of strong performance and strategic expansion,” said Stephanie Pope, President and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes. She noted that Boeing is proud to support Alaska Airlines’ growth with its 737 and 787 families.

Six decades of collaboration

The agreement marks a significant moment in the six-decade relationship between Boeing and Alaska Airlines, both headquartered in the Pacific Northwest. As the partnership enters its 60th year, the new order reinforces the close ties between the two companies and sets the stage for the next phase of Alaska Airlines’ global expansion.

Image Credit: © Boeing