On the first day of the Dubai Airshow, Seattle-based OEM Boeing has secured commitments for 20 Boeing 737 Max airlines from two african airlines.
Ethiopian Airlines was first to secure a deal with an order for 11 Boeing 737 Max 8 aircraft which be used to expand its African and International routes.
“We are thrilled to be announcing our agreement with Boeing for additional11 737-8 airplanes today during Dubai Airshow,” said Ethiopian Airlines Group CEO Mr. Mesfin Tasew. “The order will support our growth plans that we have set as part of our vision and strategy. We are happy that our partnership with Boeing continues to grow over the years and we look forward to flying Boeing airplanes for years to come and that we will continue to serve our customers by bringing them high performance airplanes with passenger comfort.”
Next up was Air Senegal which placed its first 737 Max order for nine 737 Max 8 aircraft. Air Senegal is looking to expand its route network in Europe as well as regional services.
“This acquisition marks a major milestone for Air Senegal,” said chief executive officer Tidiane Ndiaye. “This order is part of Air Senegal’s strategy to strengthen and modernize its fleet in order to support the expansion of its regional and intercontinental network and reinforce Dakar’s position as a leading aviation hub in West Africa.”
“We look forward to welcoming Air Senegal to the 737 MAX family as they leverage the versatility, reliability and advanced technology of the 737-8 to support their growth ambitions,” said Brad McMullen, Boeing senior vice president of Commercial Sales and Marketing. “We are committed to sustainable development of air travel in the region and will partner with Air Senegal as they enhance their fleet and passenger experience.”
With the rising demand for air travel on the African continent, the 737 Max 8 has proved itself as a versatile workhorse on both regional and international services.