Virgin Australia has announced the acquisition of six additional Boeing 737-8, bringing its MAX series order portfolio to a total of 39 aircraft. The new planes are expected to be delivered during the second half of 2024.
The airline, based in Brisbane International (BNE), received its third 737-8 on November 9, registered as VH-8IB and named «Bronte Beach.» The remaining eleven aircraft from Virgin Australia’s order are anticipated to arrive throughout the year 2024.
Currently, Virgin has a firm order for 39 Boeing 737-8, of which three have already been received. This order comprises 14 Boeing 737-8 and 25 Boeing 737-10. The latter have a higher passenger capacity compared to the current 737 NG, maintaining similar fuel consumption and reducing emissions per seat/flight by 17%.
The company is in the midst of a retrofit process for its Boeing 737NG fleet, with an investment of $110 million. The average age of the airline’s fleet is 11.7 years. The first 737 NG with the new interiors is expected to return to service in December of this year, completing the fleet overhaul in the next 18 to 24 months.
Enhancements to the Boeing 737NG Fleet
- Installation of Electrical Power: All Business and Economy class seats will have electrical power installation.
- New Business Class Seats: New seats will be installed in Business Class, consistent with the design of the new Boeing MAX-8 aircraft.
- New or Upgraded Economy Class Seats: Installation of new or upgraded seats in Economy Class, with a design coherent with the new Boeing MAX-8 aircraft.
- Introduction of In-flight Wifi and Free Entertainment: Wifi and free in-flight entertainment (via the passenger’s personal device) will be implemented on planes that do not yet have this technology.
