BRISBANE- Virgin Australia (VA) has expanded its Boeing 737 MAX order, committing to an additional six Max 8 aircraft, bringing the total order to 39 aircraft.
The airline plans to take delivery of these six additional aircraft in the second half of 2024. Including these recent commitments, Virgin Australia’s order comprises 14 Max 8s and 25 larger Max 10s.
Virgin Australia 737 MAX Order
It received its initial Max 8 in late June and currently operates three in its fleet. The remaining 11 Max 8 jets are scheduled for delivery through 2024, with the Max 10 deliveries anticipated to commence from late 2025.
The announcement, made on November 24th, coincides with the launch of the airline’s cabin refurbishment project for its older 737s.
Initially disclosed in July, the AU$110 million upgrade includes introducing new business and economy products featuring in-flight Wi-Fi and in-seat power.
The inaugural refitted 737 is set to enter service in early December, and Virgin Australia aims to complete the entire project within the next two years.
Alistair Hartley, Chief Strategy and Transformation Officer at Virgin Australia, emphasizes, ‘We are investing in our fleet to meet our customers’ needs best while positioning the business for long-term success. A more modern, sustainable, and streamlined fleet is central to our ongoing transformation.’
Taking First 737-8 Delivery
Virgin Australia (VA), a leading Australian airline, reached a significant milestone in its ongoing transformation with the arrival of its first Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft. This delivery signals the start of Virgin Australia’s journey towards a more advanced fleet.
The newly acquired 737-8 aircraft offers passengers a quieter and more comfortable flying experience. It represents the first of 33 MAX family (now 39) planes that Virgin Australia plans to incorporate into its fleet over the next five years.
The decision to restructure the airline’s aircraft order in December 2020 paved the way for this exciting development.
This and other fuel efficiency initiatives are expected to support over 80 percent of Virgin Australia’s interim target to reduce carbon emission intensity by 22 percent by 2030.
Virgin Australia’s simplified 737 fleet boasts an average age of just 11.7 years. Subsequently making it one of the youngest commercial fleets in Australia.
The introduction of the 737-8, which has a longer range than the 737-800 NG, will enhance the flight experience for guests. Aggs revealed that the new aircraft would soon serve the new Cairns-Haneda route, elevating travel between Tokyo and Far North Queensland.
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