Boeing and Ryanair Announce Major Deal

A $22 billion order for 737 MAX 200 aircraft sees 100 jets ordered and 100 jets optioned for future.

Though known for very low airfares, Ryanair continues to spend money on airline and passenger improvements. The Irish-based airline, in conjunction with Boeing, has announced an order of 100 737 MAX 200 aircraft, with an option for an additional 100 to be delivered.

The announcement comes weeks after the announcement of business class seating across all air routes. According to Ryanair, the new aircraft offer the new Boeing Sky Interior and have a maximum capacity of 197 flyers. Each 737 MAX 200 will also feature slimline seats, allowing up to 30 inches of legroom between passengers.

“These new ‘gamechanger’ aircraft will allow Ryanair to lower our costs and airfares, while improving our customer experience,” Ryanair CEO Michael O’Leary said in a printed statement. “As many of Europe’s flag carriers cut capacity on short haul routes, Ryanair looks forward to using these new Boeing 737 MAX 200 aircraft to grow at many more of Europe’s primary airports.”

In addition to the added passenger comforts, the aircraft are poised to be more efficient as well. Boeing states that the new aircraft will offer “up to 20 percent better fuel efficiency per seat” than comparable aircraft.

“The 737 MAX 200 is the perfect fit for Ryanair,” Boeing Commercial Airplanes President and CEO Ray Conner said in a statement. “The new variant will play a significant role in enabling the airline to continue to expand its operations, while providing passengers across Europe with outstanding value.”

The order is worth $22 billion, with a firm $11 billion order for the first 100 aircraft. The first plane is expected to be delivered in 2019.

[Photo: Ryanair]