Ryanair – if you like them or not – they know how to turn a profit, an income, and manage their fleet. That includes their current 737-800 fleet, and its future fleet.
That fleet is 300 strong, based on the Boeing 737-800 family, with 180 orders on the book for more 737-800s (and older aircraft to be returned to lessors
Well, it seems the Irish giant is looking towards to next generation of aircraft, with the airline going for an order of 100 Boeing 737 MAX 8-200 aircraft, with options for 100 more.
Boeing 737 MAX 8-200 Renderings – The Boeing Company
The 737 MAX 200 is a new variant of Boeing 737 MAX series, which in the configuration Ryanair requires it will hold 197 passengers aboard it. However, from an external viewpoint, there is one major difference from the 737 MAX 8’s we’ve seen so far…
Yup – It’s an extra door to allow for the evacuation of passengers in an emergency – Highlighted in black
Aimed at the Low Cost Carriers, the 737 MAX 8-200 will be the higher capacity aircraft holding 197 passengers, compared to the standard 737 MAX 8 which can hold 186 passengers in its default configuration.
Ryanair currently operate their 737-800s operate in 189 passenger seats aboard – an extra eight seats compared to the existing fleet. Whilst that doesn’t sound a lot, eight extra seats multiplied over the routes Ryanair operates and the frequency they operate should yield significant extra revenue.
The order has been valued at US$11 Billion on the base order, US$22 Billion if the order is fully exercised.
Ryanair has been pretty much been a Boeing exclusive customer since 2003, with the airline buying aircraft, using them and then disposing of older models to keep costs down.
The aircraft will be fitted with the Boeing Sky Interior, brand new slimline seats to support the high density configuration, and will use CFM LEAP-1B engines.
Ryanair are calling this aircraft a “gamechanger” as it will allow more passengers to be carried aboard their aircraft, whilst spending less money on fuel.
For the passenger, whilst new aircraft are always welcome – squeezing 197 people aboard a tight space like the 737-MAX could be a challenge…
Want to keep up with me at GhettoIFE? Join me either by signing up for my newsletter, or follow me on Twitter @GhettoIFE for when there are posts to the blog!
Also remember that as well as being part of BoardingArea, we’re also part of BoardingArea.eu, delivering frequent flyer news, miles and points to European readers!