This new model, which will replace the Boeing 737, will be available from 2017. The first delivery to Icelandair is planned in the first half of 2018.
The agreement includes eight Boeing 737 MAX 8, wherein in the Icelandair configuration instead offered to 153 passengers, and 4 Boeing 737 MAX 9 wherein the Icelandair configuration instead offered to 172 passengers.
By comparison, the current Icelandair Boeing, the 757-200, accommodates 183 passengers.
The agreement for the acquisition of 12 aircraft is estimated at $ 1.2 billion, but the actual purchase price is confidential. This acquisition will be partly funded by internal resources of the enterprise and commercial banks. Icelandair currently discussing with the "Export-Import Bank of the United States" the opportunities for financial support. According to the forecasts of the Group, this acquisition will have no impact on the dividend policy of the company.
The Boeing 737 MAX is a new, improved version of the current 737 and has a greater range. The 737 MAX has newer, more efficient engines compared to the current fleet. The fuel savings compared to the current fleet of Icelandair is 20% per seat.
The Boeing 757 operated by Icelandair will continue in the future, but the new aircraft will be an excellent addition to the fleet of Icelandair and the flexibility and development potential of the enterprise. The 737 MAX will fly to destinations on both sides of the Atlantic Ocean and offers new opportunities for additional destinations and increase frequencies of flights.
"This agreement is the result of research into what our aircraft manufacturer has to offer to help us strengthen our fleet and network expansion. Our partnership with Boeing's sustained success and we welcome this partnership be able to continue next years, "said Björgólfur Jóhannsson, CEO of Icelandair Group.