Ethiopian Airlines announced plans to add another eleven 737 MAX to its fleet during the 2025 Dubai Air Show this week. But its plans for the aircraft’s interior is far more significant than the incremental order.
737 MAX 8
More (paid) legroom, bags still fly free: Southwest details transformation program
Bags will continue to fly free on Southwest Airlines, even as the company moves to offer a paid extra legroom option on board its planes from 2026.
American orders 260 single-aisle aircraft for fleet up-gauging
American Airlines is spreading its delivery timeline and its supplier base, with Embraer, Boeing, and Airbus involved. All told, the carrier announced firm orders for 260 aircraft on Monday, part of its plan to keep the fleet fresh into the next decade.
Alaska Airlines takes first 737 MAX 8, plans further cabin retrofits
Alaska Airlines took delivery of its first 737 MAX 8 this week, adding additional range and flexibility to its fleet. In an unusual twist, the interior of the new plane is not what the carrier expects to fly longer term.
Lufthansa Group flexes with A220, MAX orders
The Lufthansa Group plans to add the 737 MAX 8 to its fleet before the end of the decade. It will also expand its A220-300 operations and added A320neo options.
Ethiopian targets major growth with Boeing, Airbus orders in Dubai
Ethiopian Airlines plans a big boost to its fleet, with multiple orders announced at the 2023 Dubai Air Show. The carrier will add both Airbus and Boeing jets to its fleet as it pursues significant growth through its Vision 2035 Strategy.
Southwest sees record Q3 revenues, short-term slowdown ahead
Southwest Airlines reported record revenues in Q3 and delivered a $193 million profit. But the carrier says its fleet and network are still off-balance, with its 2024 growth outlook now reduced.
HAECO proposes mini-suite installation for MAX 8
Another airline plans to install lie-flat beds for premium passengers on its 737-8 fleet. HAECO has requested permission from the US Department of Transportation to modify the cabin configuration on the 737 MAX 8 for an unnamed customer with “mini-suites” on board.
Korean renews inflight Wi-Fi plans
First announced in early 2019, Korean Air is finally ready to activate its in-flight WiFi service. The airline confirmed this week that the 737 MAX fleet will be connected on international routes as of 1 June 2023.
Air India’s major order: A first step in rebuilding, but not the most important one
Air India, now under new ownership, has grand plans for growth. And now it has a line on aircraft to fulfill those goals. The carrier (finally) announced Letters of Intent for 470 planes, plus 70 options, from Airbus and Boeing in a blockbuster move.