SAN FRANCISCO, Dec. 22 (Xinhua) -- Boeing and Alaska Airlines announced on Tuesday that the carrier is buying 23 more 737-9 airplanes, building on its original order and an agreement last month to acquire new 737-9s through lease.
The new agreement will add 23 firm orders for the 737-9 and more options for future purchases. In all, Alaska will have 52 options which, if fully exercised, would take the carrier to as many as 120 737 MAX airplanes, the announcement said.
Alaska Airlines and Boeing leaders announced the agreement during a signing ceremony at Boeing's delivery facility in Seattle.
"We are extremely proud to be announcing this transformative agreement with Boeing," said Brad Tilden, CEO of Alaska Air Group. "We believe in this airplane, we believe in our strong partnership with Boeing, and we believe in the future of Alaska Airlines and the incredible opportunities ahead as we climb our way out of this pandemic."
Alaska Airlines, a longtime Boeing 737 operator, placed an order for 32 737-9 jets in 2012 as part of its fleet modernization program.
The airline said the new deal moves it toward an all-Boeing mainline fleet that will "enhance the guest experience, improve operational performance and support the company's growth."
"We are grateful for Alaska's trust and partnership. Our team is focused on delivering their first 737 MAX jets and helping ensure a safe and seamless entry into service," said Stan Deal, president and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes. Enditem
