One Hundred Each Of 737 MAX And A320neo Ordered By The Carrier

Both Boeing and Airbus are celebrating deals struck with low-cost carrier Norwegian Airlines. Boeing says it has firm orders for 100 737 MAX airplane from the airline, while Airbus announced a Memorandum of Understanding for 100 of its A320neo jets.

737 MAX

Boeing says its agreement with Norwegian is a firm order for 100 737 MAX airplanes and 22 Next-Generation 737-800s. The total order is valued at $11.4 billion at list prices and represents the largest-ever Boeing order from a European airline. Oslo-based Norwegian is the first European carrier to finalize an order for the 737 MAX. The order supports Norwegian's plans to build on the success provided by its fleet of Next-Generation 737-800s for its rapidly expanding operations.

"Norwegian has become one of the largest 737 operators in Europe and has been a valued Boeing partner since the airline was established," said Aldo Basile, Boeing Commercial Airplanes vice president Sales, Europe. "Since it began operating in 2002, Norwegian has achieved tremendous success with its low-cost model, providing significant value to both its passengers and shareholders."

"This is a historic day for Norwegian – we have secured our fleet renewal for years to come and are very pleased with the agreement with Boeing," said Norwegian's CEO Bjorn Kjos. "Boeing has played a major part in our strategy to develop a cost efficient and environmentally friendly operation with high customer satisfaction. We are very happy to continue our valuable cooperation and we are proud to be the first 737 MAX customer in Europe."

A320neo

The airline has also signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Airbus for 100 A320neo aircraft. The agreement, which makes Norwegian the latest customer for the A320neo and also a new customer for Airbus, was signed by Bjørn Kjos, Chief Executive Officer, Norwegian and John Leahy, Airbus Chief Operating Officer, Customers.

Airbus said in a news release that the new aircraft will support Norwegian’s growth and modernization strategy.  Norwegian, the brand name of Norwegian Air Shuttle AS, operates a network across Europe into North Africa and the Middle East, and is rapidly expanding its low cost operations. The new aircraft will feature a single class cabin layout, seating approximately 180 passengers. Norwegian’s engine decision will be announced at a later date. 

“The A320neo will enable us increasing capacity while decreasing our operating costs,” said Bjørn Kjos, Chief Executive Officer, Norwegian. “With this aircraft we will continue to boost our reputation for offering high quality, low fares service with the most modern and eco-efficient fleet of aircraft in Scandinavia”.

FMI: www.boeing.com, www.airbus.com