Egyptair has taken delivery of its first Boeing 737 MAX 8, as part of the carrier’s narrowbody fleet renewal programme.
The maiden example, SU-GGM (c/n 68135), arrived on May 2, after a delivery flight from Seattle via Keflavik. It is the first of 18 MAX 8s due to be delivered to the Egyptian flag carrier, all of which will be leased from SMBC Aviation Capital. It also represents the first 737 MAX to enter service in the North African country.
Captain Ahmed Adel, chairman and CEO of the EgyptAir Holding Company, described the delivery as “a significant milestone” for the airline’s fleet modernisation plans.
He said the MAX 8 would support the carrier’s ambitions to improve passenger experience while achieving greater operational efficiency and reducing its environmental footprint. The MAX will complement EgyptAir’s existing Boeing narrowbody fleet, which includes 30 Next Generation 737s.
Boeing says the 737-8 offers around a 20% reduction in fuel and emissions compared with the aircraft it is replacing, while retaining commonality with earlier 737 models. For passengers, the aircraft introduces Boeing’s Sky Interior, including LED cabin lighting, larger windows and expanded overhead storage.
