El Al and Boeing Finalize Deal to Purchase Up to 31 737 MAX Aircraft
Replacing Aging Short-Haul Fleet
El Al Israel Airlines has signed a deal with Boeing to purchase up to 31 737 MAX aircraft, worth an estimated $2.5 billion, as part of a plan to replace its aging short-haul fleet. The agreement includes the purchase of 20 737 MAX aircraft for a certain price of $1.5 billion and options for an additional 11 aircraft.
The new aircraft will replace El Al's existing fleet of Boeing 737-800s and 737-900s, which have an average age of over 20 years. The 737 MAX is a more fuel-efficient and technologically advanced aircraft, which will offer El Al significant savings in fuel and maintenance costs.
Strengthening the Israeli Flag Carrier
The deal is a major boost for El Al, which has been facing increasing competition from low-cost carriers in recent years. The new aircraft will allow El Al to improve its operational efficiency and offer a more competitive product to its customers.
"This agreement is a significant milestone for El Al," said Gonen Usishkin, El Al's CEO. "The 737 MAX is the most advanced aircraft in its class, and it will allow us to provide our customers with a more comfortable and efficient travel experience."
Continued Partnership between El Al and Boeing
The deal is also a continuation of the long-standing partnership between El Al and Boeing. El Al has been a Boeing customer for over 70 years, and it currently operates a fleet of over 40 Boeing aircraft.
"We are proud to continue our partnership with El Al," said Ihssane Mounir, Boeing's senior vice president of Commercial Sales and Marketing. "The 737 MAX is the perfect aircraft to help El Al meet its business objectives and continue to provide its customers with a world-class travel experience."
Additional Details of the Deal
The first deliveries of the new aircraft are expected to begin in 2024. El Al will configure the aircraft with a two-class layout, with 16 business class seats and 150 economy class seats.
The deal also includes a maintenance and support agreement between El Al and Boeing, which will ensure that the aircraft are maintained to the highest standards.
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