Southwest Airlines is reinforcing its dedication to the environmentally friendly 737 MAX family by placing an order for 108 Boeing 737-7 aircraft. This substantial order aligns with Southwest’s ongoing fleet modernisation initiative and offers the flexibility needed for fleet expansion. Bob Jordan, President and Chief Executive Officer of Southwest Airlines, reflected on their long-standing partnership with Boeing, stating, “Our relationship with Boeing dates back over 50 years to the day we began service with three Boeing 737 planes, serving just three cities. They are not only a part of our history but also integral to our future as we continue to realize the numerous advantages and cost savings of maintaining a single fleet.”
The 737 family has been instrumental in supporting Southwest’s sustained growth, with over 300 orders for the 737-7, bolstering its order book to include more than 500 737 MAX jets. Upon certification, the 737-7 will seamlessly integrate into Southwest’s all-Boeing 737 fleet. Southwest Airlines recently reported third-quarter 2023 operating revenues of US$6.5 billion, marking a 4.9% year-over-year increase and a net income of US$193 million. Excluding special items, its net income reached US$240 million, with liquidity standing at US$12.7 billion, well surpassing its outstanding debt of US$8.0 billion.
Stan Deal, President and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes, emphasized the significance of this partnership, saying, “With the world’s largest all-Boeing, all-737 fleet, Southwest is banking on the exceptional efficiency and reliability of the 737 MAX family. The 737-7 plays a pivotal role in Southwest’s long-term fleet modernisation strategy, and we are honoured to continue earning the airline’s trust in delivering its future fleet.”
