The WestJet Group has announced the acquisition of three more Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft from SMBC Aviation Capital. This addition comes on top of the six new Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft announced earlier this summer.
Mike Scott, Executive Vice-President and Chief Financial Officer of WestJet Group, expressed enthusiasm about the fleet expansion, highlighting the importance of these new aircraft in providing affordable air travel options.
The acquisition of nine leased Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft in the past six months supports WestJet’s fleet growth strategy and helps manage delays in direct-from-factory deliveries. These new aircraft will enhance capacity and air access across WestJet’s expanding network.
“SMBC Aviation Capital is pleased to continue its partnership with WestJet, supporting their fleet expansion with these fuel-efficient, new technology aircraft. These Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft will allow WestJet to further grow their network and continue to serve their guests with affordable air travel options. We look forward to many more years of successful partnership with WestJet,” said Barry Flannery, Chief Commercial Officer, SMBC Aviation Capital.
While WestJet guests will benefit from the increased capacity across the airline’s network, the new aircraft will not immediately feature the updated interior cabin experience associated with the WestJet Group. Updating and refreshing the interior cabins will be prioritised as part of the airline’s existing fleet reconfiguration plans, ensuring a consistent guest experience across its operations as soon as possible.
