So, the awaited deal is done - Southwest Airlines confirms 100 new Boeing B737 MAX aircrafts & 155 options across two models.

Today, Boeing and Southwest Airlines announced that the carrier will continue to keep faith on B737 MAX family with a new order for 100 aircrafts and 155 options across two models.

The deal is a much needed breather for Boeing after a tough 2020, and this implies, the Seattle based aerospace giant and its suppliers could build more than 600 new 737 MAX jets for Southwest through 2031.

Today's agreement takes Southwest’s order book to 200 Boeing B737-7s and 180 B737-8s, more than 30 of which have already been delivered. Southwest will also have 270 options for either of the two models, taking the carrier’s direct-buy commitment to more than 600 airplanes. The airline also plans additional 737 MAX jets through third-party lessors.

So, the B737-7 max will replace Southwest’s workhorse Boeing B737-700 . Also, the jet will complement the Boeing B737-8 max, which serves Southwest’s needs for a 175-seat model.

“Southwest Airlines has been operating the Boeing 737 series for nearly 50 years, and the aircraft has made significant contributions to our unparalleled success. Today’s commitment to the 737 MAX solidifies our continued appreciation for the aircraft and confirms our plans to offer the Boeing 737 series of aircraft to our Employees and Customers for years to come,” said Gary Kelly, Southwest’s chairman and CEO. 

 Southwest Airlines also  announced today, the purchase of advanced CFM International LEAP-1B engines to power 100 Boeing 737 MAX 7 aircrafts.

“Southwest Airlines has long been a leader and bellwether for the airline industry and this order is a big vote of confidence for commercial air travel. As vaccine distribution continues to pick-up, people are returning to the skies and fueling hopes for a full recovery and renewed growth across our industry,”  said Stan Deal, president and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes.

As part of the agreement, Southwest will also expand its use of Boeing’s digital solutions to support its 737 MAX fleet, including Airplane Health Management, Maintenance Performance Toolbox and digital navigation charting tools. Boeing will also provide system software upgrades and new wireless communications-enabling equipment to support Southwest’s operations.