South Africa’s Comair Orders Eight Boeing 737 MAXs

South Africa’s Comair has ordered eight Boeing 737 MAX 8s, valued at US$830 million at list prices.

"We're proud to be the first African operator to announce an order the 737 MAX," said Erik Venter, chief executive officer of Comair, "This investment in Comair's fleet upgrade is fundamental to its business strategy of consistently improving customer service and value, while ensuring a sustainable airline. Our decision to make this investment was not taken lightly and is a critical component in managing our exposure to the volatile fuel price and thus minimizing the impact of the fuel price on airfares."

Johannesburg-based Comair operates low cost carrier kulula.com, offering flights to South Africa's major cities. Comair is also the franchise partner of British Airways, operating its local and regional Southern African routes.

The company currently flies an all-Boeing fleet of 25 Classic and Next-Generation 737s on its kulula.com and British Airways (operated by Comair) brands. The order for eight 737 MAX 8s will support future fleet renewal and expansion.

"Comair has grown over the past six decades by providing a product and service of consistent value, reliability and comfort," said Van Rex Gallard, vice president of Africa, Latin America and Caribbean Sales, Boeing Commercial Airplanes. "The unmatched operating economics of the 737 MAX make it the best airplane for Comair's growth strategy. In addition, the 737 Sky Interior, combined with Comair's excellent customer service, will provide an unmatched passenger experience."

The 737 MAX incorporates the latest technology CFM International LEAP-1B engines, as well as aerodynamic improvements such as new Advanced Technology winglets, to deliver a fuel-efficiency improvement.

With this order Comair will have a total of 12 airplanes on order from Boeing, including the eight 737 MAX 8s and four Next-Generation 737-800s for delivery in 2015 and 2016.

Since its announcement in 2011, the 737 MAX has amassed more than 1,800 orders worldwide.