Japan Airlines today confirmed a firm order for 21 Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft as part of its fleet renewal process, confirming reports that have been circulating for weeks. Deliveries are expected to take place from 2026.
The 737 MAX, key to Japan Airlines fleet renewal
In a press release, the Japanese carrier remarked that the model will be key to strengthening its short- and medium-haul network in a context of growing travel demand in the region, which continues to approach pre-pandemic levels.
According to earlier reports, the order was likely to include a combination of 737 MAX 8 and 737 MAX 10 aircraft. However, in the end, the larger version was not included.
«We are delighted to select the Boeing 737-8, a member of the very latest 737 MAX family, to replace our Boeing 737-800s, which make up the largest proportion of the JAL Group’s fleet», noted Yuji Akasaka, president of Japan Airlines. «We look forward to carrying our passengers in the utmost safety and comfort, and to moving closer to our 2050 carbon-neutral goals thanks to a combination of these super-efficient aircraft, operational innovations and new fuel-saving technologies», he added.
«The integration of the new 737 MAX will provide Japan Airlines with greater efficiency across its short-haul network, as the airline continues to upgrade its world-class fleet», said Stan Deal, president and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes. He also highlighted the long-standing relationship between the manufacturer and the airline.
Increased efficiency in the medium-range fleet
According to ch-aviation, Japan Airlines currently operates 43 Boeing 737-800, covering domestic and regional medium-range routes in Asia. The average age of these aircraft is just over 13 years. Gradual replacement with 737 MAXs will enable it to reduce operating costs and optimise its overall business.
The new aircraft to be added to the fleet consume less fuel compared to the Next Generation (NG) family and reduce carbon emissions by up to 20%. In addition, their noise impact is considerably lower.
Japan Airlines, a long-standing Boeing customer
The order is a victory for Boeing over Airbus, its main competitor. According to industry sources, the airline had also been in contact with the European manufacturer because of its interest in the A320neo, a direct competitor to the 737 MAX.
Japan Airlines is a traditional Boeing customer. Its current twin-aisle fleet consists of the 767-300, 777-200, 777-300, 787-8 and 787-9. In addition, it was a historic operator of the Boeing 747.
Recently, however, it has also acquired Airbus A350-900 aircraft to modernise its long-range fleet.
See also: New York is Japan Airlines’ first Airbus A350-1000 destination
