Max Order Moves Alaska Airlines Towards All-Boeing Fleet

Alaska Airlines has placed a new order for 23 Boeing 737-9 Max airliners, which including options brings the airline’s Max orders total to 120 airplanes. Alaska Airlines had previously announced plans to sell the Airbus A320s that came with its purchase of Virgin America, along with a lease of 13 new 737-9 Maxs. 

The order, announced Tuesday at a signing ceremony at Boeing’s delivery center in Seattle, includes 23 firm and 15 new options for the 737-9 Max. In 2012, Alaska Airlines optioned 37 Maxs. The airline’s previous firm orders include 32 in 2012. The 120 total is reached by adding those plus the 13 that will be leased.

The Alaska 737-9s will be configured with 178 seats in three classes. With a range of 3,550 nm, the 737-9 will allow the airline to offer more direct routes.  

"We believe in this airplane, we believe in our strong partnership with Boeing, and we believe in the future of Alaska Airlines and the incredible opportunities ahead as we climb our way out of this pandemic,” said Alaska Air Group CEO Brad Tilden.