Israel’s leading airline, EL AL, has completed an order for up to 31 737 MAX jets from US manufacturer Boeing, the two airlines said in a press release on Thursday.
In the order, EL AL chose 737 MAX to modernize and grow its single-aisle fleet, the statement said. The order supports the airline’s plans to renew its fleet of Next-Generation 737 aircraft.
With the 737 MAX family, the airline expects to achieve best-in-class economy per seat, deliver improved environmental performance and enhance passenger comfort, the statement said.
The 737 MAX will also reduce fuel consumption and emissions by 20% compared to the aircraft it replaces, and noise emissions will be 50% lower.
Boeing noted that the 737 MAX order is EL AL’s largest aircraft purchase in its 76-year history. EL AL had earlier this year purchased three additional 787-9 aircraft with options for six more as the airline continues to expand its 787 Dreamliner fleet.
The airline will take delivery of a new 787-9 this year and plans to lease two more new 787-9s in the coming years. Dina Ben-Tal Ganancia, chief executive of EL AL Israel Airlines, said: “This is a significant milestone for EL AL, allowing us to offer our customers the most advanced service and technology experience in the industry.
“The implementation of the long-term procurement plan, which began with the purchase of additional 787 Dreamliners earlier this year and culminates in the current deal, once again demonstrates our commitment to the Israeli public and the state.”
