Major Fleet Renewal Doubles Dreamliner Number

Boeing announced that Canadian airline WestJet has placed its largest-ever aircraft order to acquire 67 new jets in a major fleet renewal and expansion effort. The order consists of 60 737-10s with options for 25 more, and seven 787-9 Dreamliners with options for an additional four.

With this order, WestJet’s firm backlog with Boeing grows to 123 aircraft.

Alexis von Hoensbroech, WestJet CEO said, “With the addition of these aircraft, WestJet has the largest order book of any airline in Canada, and will double our fleet of Dreamliners. These highly efficient and comfortable aircraft are critical to the growth and renewal of our fleet and will also significantly improve our fuel consumption.”

WestJet is based in Calgary and plans to use its expanded 787 aircraft to increase international offerings, especially in Europe, Asia, and Latin America. The new 737-10s will support domestic and regional operations by offering more seats at the lowest cost per seat of any single-aisle aircraft.

Boeing lauded the milestone as a demonstration of its thirty-year partnership with WestJet that goes back to 1996 with three 737 aircraft.

Stephanie Pope, President and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes said, “We are honored that WestJet has once again placed its trust in Boeing. This investment solidifies their fleet for decades ahead as they grow their network and serve even more passengers.”

WestJet says it now operates one of the youngest fleets among the major North American carriers with an average age of about 10 years. The company also said expanding its fleet will support its strategy of providing affordable travel, more international destinations and connections, and improve operational efficiency.

FMI:  www.boeing.com/