Article from BTNews 1 AUGUST 2016
Malaysia signs-on for B737 MAX
Hailing “a new path to growth across the Asean [Association of Southeast Asian Nations] region”, Malaysia Airlines CEO Peter Bellew on Wednesday announced a deal with Boeing for 50 B737 MAX aircraft, with 25 firm orders and 25 purchase rights. The deal is for both Dash-8 and Dash-9 versions and is valued at $5.5bn. Deliveries start in 2019.
“This deal is a game-changer for Malaysia Airlines with much lower costs and greater efficiency which we will pass on to our loyal customers with lower fares,” Bellew said. "With the 737 MAX’s longer-range capabilities, we will be able to connect our passengers to more destinations in greater comfort and with superior economics.”
The Malaysian national carrier has operated almost every derivative of the 737 family and took delivery of its 100th 737 in December 2014. It currently operates 56 B737-800s.
Bellew said the new MAX models contained features, including new CFM engines, which would significantly lower Malaysia’s operating costs.
The engines, combined with an advanced-technology winglet and other aerodynamic improvements, would reduce fuel consumption by up to 15% in Malaysia’s configuration and reduce operational noise emissions by 40%, the CEO said.
Other features include the Boeing Sky cabin interior, slimline seats with more leg room and new wi-fi-enabled fast internet on board.
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