Dhaka: India’s Akasa Air recently placed a follow-on 737 MAX order with Boeing, confirming 150 more aircraft in its order book. The purchase of 737-10 and additional 737-8-200 aircraft by the all-737 operator was revealed at the Wings India 2024 airshow.

Since launching operations in 2022, the airline has captured approximately 4 per cent of India’s domestic market, serving 18 destinations with a fleet of 22 737 MAX jets, said reports.

Both 737 MAX variants will provide Akasa Air with added capacity and range on new and existing routes, while reducing fuel use and carbon emissions by 20 per cent compared to older-generation airplanes, added reports.

On the development, Vinay Dube, Founder and CEO, Akasa Air, said, “We are excited to announce this historic order for 150 new Boeing airplanes, increasing our total orders from Boeing to 226 jets. In addition to supporting our rapid domestic expansion, the efficiency and economics of these new airplanes position Akasa to launch international routes in the coming months.”

“The lower carbon emissions of the 737 MAX family allow us to remain focused on sustainable operations, while also providing our environmentally conscious passengers with a more comfortable way to fly. Sustainability is at the core of our business, and we strive for more opportunities to reduce our impact to the environment.”

As Akasa Air looks to expand its network in India and South Asia, Boeing’s 2023 Commercial Market outlook forecasts delivery of 2,705 new commercial airplanes over the next 20 years for the region, of which nearly 90 per cent will be single-aisle jets.

“This milestone demonstrates the strength of our partnership with Akasa Air and is a testament to the capabilities of the 737 MAX family to further the airline’s operational priorities,” said Stephanie Pope, Chief Operating Officer, Boeing.

“The efficiency and versatility of the 737-10 and 737-8-200 will support Akasa Air’s expansion to meet soaring demand for air travel in the region for many years to come,” added Pope.