Virgin Australia Orders More Boeing 737 MAXs

Virgin Australia has announced an order for additional 737-8s from the MAX series as part of its continued growth.

More 737 MAXs Coming

The airline has added six additional 737-8s to its order book in the latest announcement.

As a result, its total commitment to the 737-8 stands at 14 units, while it’ll welcome 39 next-generation 737 MAX jets for the series overall.

The new 737-8s are expected to be hugely helpful across Virgin Australia’s domestic and short-haul international network.

The carrier cites flights to cities such as Fiji, Bali and Samoa as international network targets, broadly deployed around Australia.

The 11 remaining 737-8s will arrive throughout 2024 as the airline transitions towards the new technology. Thanks to the steady stream of deliveries, a new 737 MAX will arrive almost monthly throughout the calendar year.

A Plan For The Boeing 737-10

Away from the 737-8, Virgin Australia has an existing order for another variant in the MAX series, this for the 737-10.

The 737-10 is the largest variant in the MAX series and remains uncertified, along with the 737-7.

However, Boeing recently secured the vital clearance from the Federal Aviation Administration to begin flight testing for certification.

Virgin Australia expects to receive its first 737-10 from late 2025 onwards. Additionally, the airline says that the -10s’ higher capacity will be hugely important for more in-demand routes.

Benefits Of Flying The 737 MAX

Virgin Australia says that by operating the 737 MAX, it’ll maintain one of the youngest commercial fleets in Australia.

Additionally, these aircraft reduce emissions by at least 15% compared with the previous generation of 737s, which it already flies in significant numbers.

Virgin adds that the aircraft is 40% quieter than the 737NGs and comes equipped with new interiors that enhance customer satisfaction.

These benefits, plus more, will help the airline reduce carbon emissions intensity by 22% by 2030 and support its commitment to net zero emissions by 2050.

Comments From Virgin Australia Executive

Travel demand remains high and we continue to grow and renew our fleet, enabling us to deliver great value and choice in the market. We are investing in our fleet to best meet our customers’ needs while positioning the business for success in the long-term. A more modern, sustainable, and streamlined fleet is central to our ongoing transformation

Virgin Australia Chief Strategy and Transformation Officer, Alistair Hartley