SpiceJet has taken delivery of its first Boeing 737 Max 8, and anticipates significant fuel savings from the type.
The aircraft is registered VT-MAX, and the low-cost carrier intends to use the narrowbody type to expand and standardise its fleet. At the same time, it expects fuel costs to be reduced by $1.5 million a year per aircraft.
SpiceJet is also a customer of Boeing Global Services' flight simulator and maintenance training.
Boeing
SpiceJet
SpiceJet will deploy the 737 Max on regional and international routes, with its upcoming Delhi-Hong Kong service to be launched on 22 November exclusively serviced by the type.
SpiceJet says the CFM International Leap 1B powered 737 Max 8 is 14% more fuel efficient than its 737NGs and can fly 19% farther.
"The induction of our first Max is a huge milestone in SpiceJet's journey. These new airplanes will enable us to open new routes, while reducing fuel and engineering costs, as well as emissions. The 737 Max will dramatically reduce noise pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. Passengers will benefit from a large number of premium seats and, for the first time in India, broadband internet on board," says Ajay Singh, SpiceJet's chairman and managing director.
In 2017, SpiceJet placed a firm order for 100 737 Max 8 aircraft, and revealed itself as the airline behind 13 Max 8's previously attributed to an unidentified customer. In addition, It took purchase rights for 50 additional aircraft of an unspecified type.
When these transactions are added to SpiceJet's existing orderbook for 41 Max 8s, SpiceJet could receive up to 205 aircraft altogether.
Source: Cirium Dashboard
