The WestJet Group will acquire three additional 737 MAX 8 aircraft from SMBC Aviation Capital, the group said on September 6, 2024. These aircraft are in addition to the six new 737 MAX 8 aircraft the WestJet Group added earlier this summer.
"With our longstanding partner SMBC, we are thrilled to be adding three more Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft to our growing fleet as we execute upon our mission of providing affordable air travel options to our guests," commented WestJet Group executive vice president and CFO Mike Scott.
The acquisition of nine leased 737 MAX 8 aircraft in the last six months will allow the airline to bolster its plan for fleet growth, while managing delays for direct-from-factory aircraft.
"SMBC Aviation Capital is pleased to continue its partnership with WestJet, supporting their fleet expansion with these fuel-efficient, new technology aircraft," said SMBC Aviation Capital chief commercial officer Barry Flannery. "These Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft will allow WestJet to further grow their network and continue to serve their guests with affordable air travel options."
WestJet said the new aircraft interiors will eventually be updated and refreshed as part of its existing fleet reconfiguration plans. For now, they will be used to boost capacity without reflecting WestJet's "interior cabin experience".