Big Deal: IAG Orders 150 Boeing 737 MAX Jets

Boeing and the International Airlines Group (IAG) today announced an order for up to 150 Boeing 737 MAX jets. The order includes firm orders for 25 Boeing 737-8-200s and 25 Boeing 737-10s for a total of 50, plus 100 options.

This order, which was previously announced as a commitment at the 2019 Paris Air Show, is a big deal considering all that is going on at Boeing at the moment. It's also a sign of confidence in the American aerospace giant.

"The addition of new Boeing 737s is an important part of IAG´s short-haul fleet renewal. These latest generation aircraft are more fuel efficient than those they will replace and in line with our commitment to achieving net zero carbon emissions by 2050," said Luis Gallego, IAG´s chief executive.

The Boeing 737-8-200 will enable IAG to configure the airplane with up to 200 seats, increasing revenue potential and reducing fuel consumption.

The largest model in the family, the 737-10 seats up to 230 passengers in a single-class configuration and can fly up to 3,300 miles. The fuel-efficient jet can cover 99% of single-aisle routes, including routes served by 757s.

"With the selection of the 737-8-200 and larger 737-10, IAG has invested in a sustainable and profitable future, as both variants will significantly lower operating costs and CO2 emissions," said Stan Deal, president and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes. "Today's agreement for up to 150 airplanes, including 100 options, is a welcome addition of the 737 to IAG´s short-haul fleets and reflects our commitment to support the Group's continued network recovery and future growth with Boeing's unrivalled family of airplanes."

The Boeing 737 incorporates the latest-technology CFM International LEAP-1B engines, Advanced Technology winglets and other improvements to deliver the highest efficiency, reliability and passenger comfort in the single-aisle market.

The 737 family of airplanes is on average 14% more fuel-efficient than today's most efficient Next-Generation 737s and 20% more efficient than the original Next-Generation 737s when they entered service.

As a leading global aerospace company, Boeing develops, manufactures and services commercial airplanes, defense products and space systems for customers in more than 150 countries.

IAG is comprised of 6 airline brands, including British Airways, Iberia, Aer Lingus, Iberia Express, LEVEL and Vueling. The Boeing 737 MAX jets are scheduled to be delivered between 2023 and 2027. However, it's not yet clear which of the IAG airlines will operate them.