With this latest order, Akasa Air’s total order book now stands at 76 jets, comprising 23 Boeing 737-8s and 53 high-capacity 737-8-200 airplanes.
Boeing and Akasa Air have announced a new order for four additional 737-8 jets at the Paris Air Show, further expanding the Indian carrier’s fleet to support the rapidly growing market in India. Akasa Air, which commenced operations in 2022 with its first 737-8 aircraft, has witnessed significant market share growth and currently operates a fleet of 19 airplanes serving 16 destinations. With this latest order, Akasa Air’s total order book now stands at 76 jets, comprising 23 737-8s and 53 high-capacity 737-8-200 airplanes. The addition of these four aircraft will be delivered over the next four years, allowing the airline to enhance its domestic expansion efforts and prepare for international routes.
Akasa Air’s current fleet comprises 19 737-8s, and the high-capacity 737-8-200 airplanes are on order. With air travel demand in India surpassing pre-pandemic levels, the versatile 737-8 aircraft is crucial in supporting the airline’s growth plans and expanding its domestic network. Furthermore, it positions Akasa Air for future regional expansion opportunities.
“As the world’s fastest growing airline, we are excited to add four more Boeing 737-8 airplanes into our fleet, taking our initial order of 72 aircraft up to 76 jets which will be delivered over the next four years. In addition to supporting our rapid domestic expansion, these airplanes allow us to take full advantage of the category leading 737-8 aircraft with its unparalleled range, as we prepare our foray into international routes,” said Vinay Dube, Founder and CEO, Akasa Air. “The fuel efficiency and lower carbon emissions of the 737-8 allows us to remain focused on sustainable operations, while also providing our environmentally conscious passengers with a more comfortable way to fly. Sustainability is at the core of our business, and we strive for more opportunities to reduce our impact to the environment,” he further added.
The recent order placed by Akasa Air for four additional Boeing 737-8 jets opens up several MRO (Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul) possibilities for the airline. As Akasa Air expands its fleet and operations, it will require comprehensive maintenance and support services to ensure the airworthiness and reliability of its aircraft. Here are some potential MRO opportunities arising from this deal:
· Maintenance Services: Akasa Air can collaborate with Boeing or authorized MRO service providers to carry out routine maintenance checks, inspections, and repairs on its new 737-8 aircraft. These services include scheduled maintenance tasks such as airframe inspections, component replacements, and system checks to ensure the continued airworthiness of the fleet.
· Engine Overhauls: As the new aircraft are equipped with engines, Akasa Air will require periodic engine overhauls and maintenance. Boeing can provide or facilitate engine MRO services through its network of partners or by coordinating with engine manufacturers to ensure optimal engine performance and reliability.
· Component Support: Boeing Global Services can assist Akasa Air in managing and sourcing aircraft components. This includes providing a comprehensive parts provisioning program to ensure the availability of critical components, reducing downtime, and optimizing maintenance operations.
· Modifications and Upgrades: Akasa Air may choose to modify or upgrade certain aspects of its aircraft, such as cabin configurations, avionics systems, or in-flight entertainment systems. Boeing can offer modification services to tailor the aircraft to Akasa Air’s specific requirements, enhance passenger experience, and align with the airline’s brand image.
· Training and Support: With the expansion of its fleet, Akasa Air will need to train its maintenance technicians and pilots to ensure they are proficient in handling and maintaining the new aircraft. Boeing can provide training programs, technical support, and access to training simulators to assist Akasa Air in developing and maintaining a skilled workforce.
· Warranty Support: As part of the aircraft purchase agreement, Boeing typically provides warranty coverage for a specified period. Akasa Air can leverage this warranty support to address any potential manufacturing or material defects during the warranty period, reducing maintenance costs and downtime.
Overall, the extended partnership between Akasa Air and Boeing opens up opportunities for a comprehensive MRO collaboration, ensuring that Akasa Air’s growing fleet operates safely, efficiently, and reliably. It allows Akasa Air to leverage Boeing’s expertise, resources, and global network to meet its MRO needs and maintain high operational standards.
“This follow-on order by Akasa demonstrates the market-leading capabilities of the 737 MAX in the world’s fastest-growing commercial aviation market,” said Brad McMullen, Boeing senior vice president of Commercial Sales and Marketing. “The efficiency and range of the 737-8 support Akasa Air’s plan to expand domestic and regional networks,” he further added.
The 737 MAX family offers Akasa Air improved range and fuel efficiency, resulting in a 20% reduction in fuel consumption and carbon emissions compared to older-generation airplanes. Additionally, the 737 MAX aircraft boasts quieter operations, with a 50% smaller noise footprint, contributing to enhanced passenger comfort and reduced environmental impact.
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Boeing has witnessed strong demand for its new commercial airplanes, with over 1,000 orders and commitments received since July 2022. The popularity of the 737 MAX, with over 750 orders, underscores its versatility and commonality, enabling airlines like Akasa Air to benefit from operational efficiencies and cost savings.
