Riyadh: AviLease, the global aircraft lessor headquartered in Saudi Arabia, today announced that it has signed an agreement with Boeing for an order of 30 Boeing 737-8 aircraft. This marks AviLease’s first direct order from an original equipment manufacturer (OEM), signifying a significant step in its strategic investment toward expanding its fleet with new-technology, fuel-efficient aircraft. Deliveries of these aircraft are scheduled through 2032.
According to Saudi Press Agency, this move is set to enhance AviLease’s ability to offer advanced fleet solutions to its global customers while contributing to the growth of the Saudi Arabian aviation ecosystem. Fahad AlSaif, Chairman of AviLease, emphasized that the order aligns with the company’s long-term ambition of becoming a top 10 global leader in aircraft leasing. He also highlighted that this initiative supports AviLease’s role as a national champion, in line with the Public Investment Fund’s (PIF) mandate to advance Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 and the National Aviation Strategy.
Edward O’Byrne, Chief Executive Officer of AviLease, expressed satisfaction with concluding the company’s first direct OEM order. He noted that this complements AviLease’s growth strategy and exemplifies its capability to engage in diverse market channels, including sale and lease-back, secondary trading, mergers and acquisitions, and now direct OEM purchasing. O’Byrne further stated that the acquisition of these new aircraft will accelerate AviLease’s growth and enable the delivery of the latest generation of fuel-efficient fleet solutions. He also extended gratitude to Boeing for their strong long-term partnership.
Brad McMullen, Senior Vice President of Commercial Sales and Marketing at Boeing, remarked that the order strengthens Boeing’s relationship with AviLease, a key partner in Saudi Arabia’s commercial aviation sector. He added that the incorporation of the 737 MAX will diversify AviLease’s portfolio with advanced single-aisle technology, and that the 737-8’s versatility and fuel efficiency will support AviLease in expanding its operations and meeting both business and sustainability objectives for its airline customers.
