Boeing and EgyptAir have released that the Egyptian flag carrier has taken delivery of its first 737 MAX aircraft. The 737-8 is the first of 18 aircraft to be leased from SMBC Aviation Capital and marks the introduction of the 737 MAX in Egypt.
“The delivery of our first Boeing 737 MAX marks a significant milestone in our fleet modernisation strategy. By integrating the 737-8 into our operations, EgyptAir Holding is committed to providing our passengers with a superior travel experience while achieving greater operational efficiency,” said Captain Ahmed Adel, chairman and CEO of EgyptAir Holding Company. “This aircraft’s advanced technology and reduced environmental footprint align perfectly with our vision for sustainable growth and our dedication to maintaining a young, state-of-the-art fleet that connects Egypt to the world.”
The 737-8 will sit alongside EgyptAir’s existing fleet of 30 Next-Generation 737 aircraft, providing strong operational commonality while delivering improved efficiency, with fuel burn and emissions around 20% lower than the aircraft it replaces. As part of its fleet modernisation programme, the airline intends to deploy the new aircraft on short- and medium-haul services to destinations such as Paris, Brussels, Istanbul and Vienna.
Barry Flannery, Chief Commercial Officer at SMBC Aviation Capital commented on the transaction: “This delivery underscores our long-standing partnership with Boeing and our commitment to providing EgyptAir with efficient, next-generation aircraft that enhance operational performance and deliver a better passenger experience.”
EgyptAir is one of Africa’s largest and longest-serving operators of the 737 family, dating back to 1975 when the airline first ordered the airplane type. The carrier also operates five 777 and eight 787 Dreamliner jets.
