Malaysia Aviation Group Secures up to 60 Boeing 737 MAX Jets, and More
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Malaysia Aviation Group Finalizes Order for 30 Boeing 737 MAX Jets with Options for 30 More
Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG) has confirmed an order for up to 60 Boeing 737 MAX aircraft, comprising 30 firm orders and 30 options.
The firm order includes 18 Boeing 737-8 and 12 737-10 jets, finalizing a deal that was booked in January 2025 but previously listed as unidentified on Boeing's orders and deliveries website.
Key Points
- MAG plans to modernize its narrowbody fleet to 55 Boeing 737-8 and 737-10 aircraft by 2030, gradually phasing out older 737-800 aircraft
- The new aircraft will enable Malaysia Airlines to introduce lie-flat business class seats, particularly on the 737-10 variant, enhancing premium travel experience on regional routes
- Malaysia Airlines currently operates 11 737 MAX 8s, with 14 more on order from Air Lease Corporation, separate from this new order
- The carrier took delivery of 6 737 MAX 8s between January-February 2025, doubling its MAX fleet in less than a month
- The 737 MAX aircraft will reduce fuel use and emissions by 20% compared to previous generation aircraft
- The order follows Malaysia Airlines' recovery efforts after two tragic incidents in 2014 and subsequent restructuring under MAG, backed by sovereign wealth fund Khazanah Nasional
- The new aircraft are scheduled for delivery in 2029, according to MAG
- Southeast Asia is projected as one of the fastest-growing aviation markets, with regional passenger traffic expected to triple over the next 20 years
What It Means
This strategic investment further strengthens Boeing's position in Southeast Asia despite ongoing production challenges and delivery delays affecting airlines globally.
For MAG, it represents a significant commitment to fleet modernization and premium service enhancement in one of aviation's fastest-growing markets.
The substantial order signals MAG's confidence in its financial recovery and long-term growth strategy following years of restructuring.
