United Airlines receives first Boeing 737 MAX 9 from Aircastle

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United Airlines receives first Boeing 737 MAX 9 from Aircastle

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Airbus A380 | Airbus

By Sky Industry News

Dec 10, 2024

Despite ongoing production challenges, Boeing continues to deliver aircraft from its factories. United Airlines has recently received a Boeing 737 MAX 9 as part of a lease agreement with Aircastle, which includes five more aircraft scheduled for delivery in 2024 and 2025.

Aircastle announced the delivery of the first MAX 9 to United Airlines, highlighting that all six planes will be powered by CFM Leap engines and delivered from Boeing's Seattle facilities. Mike Inglese, CEO of Aircastle, stated, "We are proud to build upon our long relationship with United by delivering the most fuel-efficient new aircraft available. In furthering the modernization of United's fleet, we are playing our part as global aviation transitions towards more sustainable aircraft solutions."

Eric Harder, Vice President and Treasurer of United Airlines, expressed gratitude for the partnership with Aircastle, saying, "We are grateful for our ongoing partnership with Aircastle as we continue to modernize our fleet and execute our long-term growth strategy, delivering the next generation of aircraft to our customers."

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United Airlines is a major operator of Boeing 737 Max aircraft in the U.S., second only to Southwest Airlines. The airline has over 180 MAXs in its fleet and more than 130 MAX 9s on order. However, recent production delays at Boeing have affected United’s plans. Earlier this year, United requested Boeing halt production of the MAX 10 due to certification uncertainties in favor of producing more MAX 9s. Scott Kirby, CEO of United Airlines, commented on this decision: “We’ve asked Boeing to stop building Max 10s, which they’ve done for us and start building Max 9s. It’s impossible to say when the Max 10 is going to get certified.”

Due to these delays, United has adjusted its business strategy and considered alternatives such as swapping orders for Airbus A321neo models. Reports suggest that United is firming up agreements with lessors for an additional 40 Airbus A321neo aircraft.

United has been rapidly expanding its A321neo fleet and recently took delivery of its 25th A321neo. With continued expansion efforts underway, United aims to exceed a total of 1,000 active aircraft.