SMBC Aviation Capital Orders 100 Boeing 737 MAX Aircraft

SMBC Aviation Capital has placed an order with Boeing for 100 737 MAX aircraft, comprising 60 737-10s and 40 737-8s, further expanding its narrowbody leasing portfolio.

The agreement marks the lessor’s first order for the 737-10, the largest member of the 737 MAX family, and represents the largest single order for the type by an aircraft lessor. Following the purchase, SMBC Aviation Capital’s owned, managed and committed 737 MAX portfolio will increase to 450 aircraft.

The lessor said the order will provide airline customers with long-term access to next-generation narrowbody aircraft as demand continues to grow for larger, more fuel-efficient single-aisle jets. The 737-10 offers seating for up to 230 passengers and is designed to improve operating economics on high-demand routes.

Boeing said the order reflects continued strong demand from aircraft lessors for fuel-efficient narrowbody aircraft as global passenger traffic is expected to grow over the coming decades.