US operator Southwest Airlines, the world’s largest low-cost carrier, has ordered 100 Boeing 737 MAX airliners and taken options for 155 more. The deal covers both the 737 MAX 7 and 737 MAX 8 versions of the single-aisle airliner, and takes the airline’s total order book for the type to 200 737 MAX 7s and 180 737 MAX 8s, with 270 options for either type. To date, Boeing has delivered 30 737 MAXs to Southwest.

“Southwest Airlines has been operating the Boeing 737 series for nearly 50 years, and the aircraft has made significant contributions to our unparalleled success,” highlighted airline chairperson and CEO Gary Kelly. “(This) commitment to the 737 MAX solidifies our continued appreciation for the aircraft and confirms our plans to offer the Boeing 737 series of aircraft to our employees and customers for years to come. We are proud to continue our tradition of being the world’s largest operator of an all-Boeing fleet.”

“Southwest Airlines has long been a leader and bellwether for the airline industry and this order is a big vote of confidence for commercial air travel,” affirmed Boeing Commercial Airplanes president and CEO Stan Deal. “As vaccine distribution continues to pick up, people are returning to the skies and fuelling hopes for a full recovery and renewed growth across our industry. We are deeply honoured by Southwest’s continuing trust in Boeing and the 737. Their fleet decision (Monday) brings more stability for our biggest commercial programme and will ensure that our entire 737 family will be building new airplanes for Southwest for years to come.”

Southwest now has direct-buy commitments for more than 600 737 MAXs. But it also plans to lease further examples of the type, from aircraft leasing companies. “In addition to supporting our efforts to operate sustainably and efficiently, the 737 MAX offers employees and customers travel comforts such as a quieter cabin, larger overhead bin spaces, seating with adjustable headrests, and more galley space for onboard service,” noted Southwest chief operating officer Mike Van de Ven.  

The deal will also see the airline increasing its use of Boeing’s 737 MAX digital support solutions, such as the Airplane Health Management system, digital navigation charting tools and the Maintenance Performance Toolbox. System software upgrades and new wireless communications-enabling equipment will also be provided by Boeing, to underpin Southwest’s operations.

The 737 MAX was grounded worldwide in March 2019, as a consequence of two fatal accidents that killed 346 people. That grounding was lifted by the world’s major civil aviation regulators over the period November 2020 to January 2021, with provisos that certain modifications and upgrades were made to the aircraft and its associated procedures.