Boeing: Air Algérie Confirms Order for Eight Planes and Commits to Two Converted Freighters
BY: Hana Saada
ALGIERS- Air Algérie, the national airline of Algeria, has officially confirmed its order for eight fuel-efficient 737-9 aircraft from American aircraft manufacturer Boeing. The announcement was made on Tuesday, June 20, 2023, at the international aeronautics and space exhibition “Le Bourget” in Paris, France. In addition to the passenger planes, Air Algérie has also signed a memorandum of understanding for two Boeing 737-800 Converted Freighters (BCF) to cater to the growing demand for freight transportation in the region.
The contract for the acquisition of the eight medium-lift aircraft was signed between Air Algérie and Boeing on May 17 in Algiers, the capital city of Algeria. The deliveries of the planes are scheduled to begin in 2027. Yacine Benslimane, the CEO of Air Algérie, expressed his enthusiasm about the order, stating that it will contribute to the development of the airline’s fleet and is aligned with their strategy of expanding through the acquisition of new aircraft.
Currently, Air Algérie operates a fleet of more than 30 single-aisle planes, including the 737-500, 737-600, and 737-800 models. The addition of the 737-9 aircraft will enable the airline to carry more passengers, thereby increasing the profitability of its network. With a capacity to accommodate 193 passengers in a two-class configuration and a range of 3,300 nautical miles, the 737-9 is an ideal fit for Air Algérie’s regional operations.
Stan Deal, the President and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes, expressed his confidence in the compatibility of the 737-9 with Air Algérie’s existing fleet and network. He mentioned that the aircraft’s increased capacity and flexibility will enable the airline to seamlessly operate alongside their current 737 planes. Furthermore, Deal highlighted the advantages of the Boeing Converted Freighters 737-800, emphasizing their reliability, efficiency, and ability to support Air Algérie’s growth opportunities in the freight sector.
The 737 MAX family, to which the 737-9 belongs, offers enhanced efficiency, improved environmental performance, and increased passenger comfort in the single-aisle market. Equipped with CFM International LEAP-1B engines and state-of-the-art winglets, the 737 MAX reduces fuel burn and emissions by 20% compared to its predecessor models.
Boeing has witnessed significant demand for its new commercial jets, with customers placing over 1,000 orders and commitments since July 2022. Among these, more than 750 orders are for the 737 MAX, which reflects the value of the aircraft’s versatility and its appeal to airlines worldwide.
Additionally, Air Algérie recently signed a contract with European aircraft manufacturer Airbus for the purchase of seven jumbo jets. The deal includes five A330-900 and two A350-1000 aircraft, with the first delivery expected in the second quarter of 2025. Furthermore, Air Algérie is in the process of acquiring ten more aircraft through operational leasing, with bids for the international consultation held on May 29. The airline aims to acquire six wide-bodied aircraft (four A330-200/300 GE and two A330-900) and four medium-bodied aircraft (two B737-800 and two B737-9 Max).
As part of this operation, Air Algérie anticipates receiving four aircraft by the end of 2023, while the remaining six are scheduled for delivery during the first half of 2024, according to the airline’s established timeline.
Air Algérie’s commitment to expanding its fleet and modernizing its aircraft lineup demonstrates the airline’s ambition to enhance its services, cater
