Boeing and SCAT Airlines announce order for five 737 MAX jets to support growth | News
Boeing and SCAT Airlines announced today that the airline will expand its fleet and increase capacity with the fuel-efficient 737 MAX. The airline’s previously unknown order for an additional five 737-9 jets will support operational efficiencies and expand single-aisle service over longer distances, including more routes to Europe.
SCAT has also converted five 737-8 jets from a previous order to the larger 737-9
SCAT Airlines will deploy its larger 737-9 fleet to operate long-haul flights from Kazakhstan, pioneering seventh freedom routes from Central Asia through Europe and Asia. The airline recently launched a groundbreaking Prague-Sanya service, connecting the Czech Republic and China with a technical stop in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan – a journey of more than 14 hours.
“This fleet update allows SCAT Airlines to better meet growing passenger demand while maintaining the flexibility to serve a diverse and growing route network,” said Vladimir Denissov, president of JSC SCAT Airlines. “Converting five of the previously ordered 737-8s to 737-9s, along with the new firm order for five 737-9s, increases our seating capacity per flight and will improve schedule reliability as we expand our international network.”
The 737 MAX family delivers exceptional efficiency and performance, reducing fuel consumption by 20% compared to the aircraft it replaces. The 737-9 seats 220 passengers and has a range of up to 6,110 kilometers (3,300 nautical miles), giving airlines the capacity and extended range to open new routes and profitably serve high-demand markets.
“SCAT’s decision to expand the 737-9 fleet underscores the versatility and economic benefits of the 737 MAX family,” said Paul Righi, Boeing vice president of Commercial Sales and Marketing for Eurasia, India and South Asia. “The 737-9 offers the right combination of capacity, range and efficiency to help airlines expand their networks while lowering operating costs. We are proud to support SCAT in connecting Central Asia to more destinations in Europe and beyond.”
Based in Shymkent, Kazakhstan, SCAT Airlines operates an extensive domestic and international network in Central Asia and the Commonwealth of Independent States with nearly 40 Boeing jets in service. The airline was the first in Central Asia to fly the 737 MAX and currently operates nine 737-8 and five 737-9 aircraft.
As a leading global aerospace company and the largest U.S. exporter, Boeing develops, produces and maintains commercial aircraft, defense products and space systems for customers in more than 150 countries. Boeing’s global workforce and supplier base drive innovation, economic opportunity, sustainability and community impact. The company is committed to promoting a culture based on the core values of safety, quality and integrity.
