Southwest Airlines continues to bet on the 737-7 for modernization and growth. The world’s largest low-cost carrier has signed a new agreement with Boeing for the acquisition of 108 additional aircraft, extending its delivery program until 2031 and growing its orderbook to more than 500 737 MAX.
The news agreement brings the airline commitments for the 737-7 to 302 aircraft. It supports Southwest’s modernization strategy and provides flexibility to expand its fleet.
“With the world’s largest all-Boeing, all-737 fleet, Southwest is counting on the exceptional efficiency and reliability of the 737 MAX family,” said Stan Deal, president and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes. “The 737-7 is pivotal to Southwest’s long-term fleet modernization strategy, and we are honored to have the airline’s continued trust in us to deliver its future fleet.”
In its latest fleet plan, the first 737-7 aircraft should arrive next year, but are still dependent on the FAA’s decision to certify the shortest version of the 737 MAX family.
Southwest Airlines expects to receive 27 aircraft in 2024, 54 in 2025 and 59 in 2026. In its previous fleet plan, deliveries were to begin in 2023 (with 31 aircraft) and last until 2029. The order has also increased the number of deliveries from 2027.
In the meantime, the company is relying on the 737-8, of which it still has 200 on order. It has received 69 737 MAX 8s since the start of the year and estimates that it should receive 85 in total in 2023, instead of the 105 initially planned.
