Low-cost carrier Virgin Australia confirmed today that it will increase its order for Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft: four additional airplanes will be added to its fleet from the second half of 2023 to reach a total of eight.
The new order comes on top of the order for four aircraft of the same type that the company founded by Richard Branson placed in April this year. Virgin Australia expects to continue its growth strategy with a fleet of 737-700, 737-800 and MAX 8 variants, which will reach 92 aircraft in operation.
The airline plans to introduce the first four Boeing 737 MAX 8s from February 2023. They will be able to carry up to 170 passengers in a two-class configuration.
In addition, it also mantains a firm order for 25 Boeing 737 MAX 10s, which will be capable of carrying up to 204 passengers in a two-class configuration. Deliveries of the larger variant of the latest family of the manufacturer’s popular model are also scheduled for next year.
The fleet modernisation programme is focused on increasing the capacity offered and reducing greenhouse gas emissions associated to operations. According to the company, the initiative is part of its journey towards net zero emissions. The goal is in line with what other operators globally have declared in recent times.
Jayne Hrdlicka, the company’s CEO, said that today’s announcements «demonstrate the airline’s commitment to the Australian aviation market and to sustainably grow its fleet for long-term success». She also highlighted the growth of the airline’s workforce, which recently surpassed seven thousand people.
The executive also referred to the current context of the industry. In that sense, she mentioned that despite the current challenges facing aviation, travel demand continues to recover and show positive numbers. She assured that Virgin Australia is responding to this situation with a «focus on the long-term by increasing the efficiency and sustainability» of its business.
New simulator in Western Australia, key to local pilots training
The company also secured the acquisition of a full flight simulator for Next Generation (NG) variants to be installed at Jandakot, near Perth, Western Australia. This is part of a long-term partnership with global aviation training services provider CAE.
For the first time, Virgin Australia will have a full-flight simulator (FFS) outside the states of Victoria or Queensland. This will save Perth-based crew members travel time to the east coast of the country and the company will reduce the associated costs.
