WestJet opts for Boeing over Bombardier

Canadian airline WestJet has chosen US planemaker Boeing for its latest aircraft order.

Travel Insurance News - 29/08/2013

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Canadian airline WestJet has chosen US planemaker Boeing for its latest aircraft order.

Reports said on Thursday that the carrier has reached a deal with the Seattle-based firm for 65 of the forthcoming 737 MAX model jets; the deal is reportedly worth around USD $6.3 billion at list prices.

According to the letter of intent, the order will be comprised of 40 of the 737 MAX 8 model and 25 of the slightly downsized 737 MAX 7s.

WestJet chief executive Gregg Saretsky said in a statement that the carrier is proud to continue its relationship with Boeing and that the firm looks forward to introducing the 737 MAX into its current fleet.

The Calgary-based airline was reported to have considered ordering new aircraft from Canadian aircraft manufacturer Bombardier for its next fleet upgrade; Mr Saretsky said however that the decision to go with Boeing was ultimately made because of the 737 MAX’s commonality it has with the current WestJet fleet.

The arrival of the 737 MAX continues to be highly anticipated by a number of airlines looking to take advantage of the aircraft’s fuel-efficiency.

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