Air Algérie announced today in the Paris Air Show it has ordered eight new Boeing 737 MAX 9 — the first next-generation narrowbody order of Algeria’s flag carrier. The airline also disclosed a Memorandum of Understanding for two 737-800 converted freighters.
In a press release the airline’s general manager, Yacine Benslimane, stated «this order will contribute to the development of the Air Algérie fleet. This acquisition is part of Air Algérie’s fleet extension strategy through the purchase of new aircraft».
While the cabin configuration to be deployed was not disclosed, this will be the largest narrowbody the airline will operate. Algeria’s main airline currently has a 737 fleet comprised of five units of the -600 variant, two of the -700 and 25 of the -800, according to data by Planespotters.net.
«The 737-9 is ideally suited for Air Algérie’s regional network, providing it with additional capacity and flexibility to operate seamlessly with its existing 737 fleet», stated the CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes, Stan Deal, in the press release. «In addition, the highly reliable and capable 737-800 Boeing Converted Freighters will enable Air Algérie to capture growing cargo opportunities, expanding beyond its passenger business».
Both Benslimane and Deal were present at today’s signing ceremony at the Boeing challet, as well as Boeing Global Services’ CEO, Stephanie Pope.
The new Boeing 737 MAX 9 will assist the development of Air Algérie’s long-term plans for the European market, Deal said. With more capacity than the 737-800, this new aircraft will help the company to drive volumes up, thus driving unit costs down.
According to the airline’s general manager, the order will allow Air Algérie to maintain and develop its market share in the country. All the eight 737 MAX 9 are to be delivered in 2027, the executive added.
