EgyptAir, the national carrier of Egypt, is set to expand its fleet with the addition of 18 Boeing 737 Max 8 aircraft. This move is part of a leasing agreement with Air Lease Corp, signed on the first day of Dubai Airshow 2023.
The Order Details
The North African airline will take on the aircraft as part of a leasing agreement with Air Lease Corp. The Boeing 737 Max 8 typically seats about 170 passengers. The airline will take the aircraft between 2025 and 2026.
A Look at EgyptAir's Fleet
The addition of the Boeing 737 Max 8 aircraft will tilt EgyptAir’s narrowbody fleet toward Boeing. The carrier’s single-aisle fleet is now fairly evenly split between Boeing and Airbus, with just under 30 units of each manufacturer in the airline’s lineup.
EgyptAir's Growth Strategy
EgyptAir has been on a drive to increase its fleet size as it aims to strengthen revenue amid a rebounding aviation sector after three years of COVID-induced losses. In February, EgyptAir took delivery of its first A321-NEO from Airbus’ Delivery Centre in Hamburg to become the first African operator of the aircraft. The Egyptian flag carrier’s fleet expansion and improvement strategy aims to support its route development plan, to bring to 96 the number of destinations. The 90-year-old airline currently operates flights to more than 70 destinations across some 60 countries.
Conclusion
This new order from EgyptAir is a significant step for the airline and the aviation industry. It demonstrates EgyptAir's commitment to expanding its fleet and enhancing its services. The addition of the Boeing 737 Max 8 aircraft will undoubtedly contribute to the airline's growth and its ability to serve various market demands.