United Airlines Orders 200 More Boeing 737 MAX Jets

After the first flight of the new model, agreement includes 150 737-10 jetsUnited Airlines and Boeing [NYSE:BA] announced today that they will purchase 200 additional 737 MAX aircraft. These include 150 for the largest of the family, 737-10, as well as 50 for the plane that serves the heartland of single-aisle markets, the 737-8. United's new acquisition positions the airline's fleet for growth, and will help to accelerate demand for air travel.Scott Kirby, United CEO, stated that "United Next" will transform the experience of flying United and help us accelerate our business to meet a revival in air travel. We will combine friendly, helpful service and the best experience in flight across our global network by adding and upgrading these many aircraft quickly with our signature interiors. This move also highlights the vital role United plays in sustaining the U.S. economy. We expect that the addition of these aircraft will have a significant impact on the economies of the communities we serve, in terms of traveler spending, job creation and shipping goods and services.United now has 380 aircraft in its order book for the single-aisle, fuel-efficient family, up from 30 already delivered. United was the launch customer of the 737-10. In 2017, United placed its first order for the aircraft by converting 100 737-9 orders into the larger 737-10 model. The agreement today also includes the purchase data packages for United's Boeing 737 MAX pilot training programs.The 737 MAX family was designed and built in Renton Washington. It offers superior efficiency, flexibility, reliability, and fuel consumption. The 7377-8 can seat up to 189 people and can fly 3,550 nautical miles, about 600 miles further than its predecessor. This allows airlines to offer more direct routes to passengers.The 737-10 is the largest of the family and can carry up to 230 passengers in single-class configuration. It can also fly up to 3,300 miles. This fuel-efficient jet is capable of covering 99% single-aisle routes including those served by 757s."We are humbled by United Airlines’ confidence in Boeing's people and the planes they design and build every single day. Since the beginning of United Airlines, our strong partnership has allowed us to grow and weather all kinds of challenges over the years. We are proud that United once again chose the 737 family's efficiency, performance and flexibility to power their expanding network as they look forward to the recovery. Stan Deal, President and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes, stated that the Boeing team is thrilled to build hundreds of these new aircraft for United and deliver on a landmark agreement which will solidify our future together over the next decades."Daily News Delivery Subscribe to your colleagues to stay informed about the latest trends and news in the Travel industry. Subscribe2021 Travel Industry Wire