At the Paris Air Show, Akasa Air and Boeing announced an order for four additional 737 MAX 8 as part of the Indian low-cost carrier’s growth plan. The company began operations in August 2022.
With this latest order, Akasa Air has now ordered a total of 76 aircraft: 23 737 MAX 8 and 53 737-8-200, the high-capacity, high-density variant of the family. The remaining deliveries are expected to be completed gradually over the next four years.
The Boeing 737 MAX and Akasa Air’s expansion plans
Akasa Air plans to add destinations and connections to its network progressively. While it initially offered a total of five routes between five cities (Mumbai, Bangalore, Chennai, Ahmedabad and Kochi), its expansion plan envisages a strong presence across the country. In addition, the company plans to expand its services in the coming months and launch international operations.
In order to achieve these goals, Akasa Air has early on expressed its intention to increase the size of its fleet. It placed an initial order for 72 aircraft, which included units of both variants mentioned above. So far, it has taken delivery of 19 737 MAX 8.
“In addition to supporting our rapid domestic expansion, these airplanes allow us to take full advantage of the category leading 737 MAX 8 aircraft with its unparalleled range, as we prepare our foray into international routes”, said Vinay Dube, founder and CEO of Akasa Air.
The executive also highlighted the type’s lower fuel consumption compared to previous generations and appreciated the reduction in greenhouse gas emissions that its features make possible. “Sustainability is at the core of our business”, he said.
“As passenger traffic rises above pre-pandemic levels in India, the versatile 737 MAX 8 is supporting Akasa Air’s growth strategy and domestic network and positions the airline for future regional expansion”, Boeing highlighted in a press release.
See also: Akasa Air completes its first scheduled commercial flight
