Alaska Airlines is making a significant leap in its expansion efforts, announcing the largest aircraft purchase in its history on September 19, 2024. The airline has committed to acquiring more than 100 Boeing jets, including 105 yet-to-be-certified Boeing 737 MAX 10s and five 787-10 Dreamliners. This strategic investment aims to secure crucial order slots through the mid-2030s as Alaska positions itself for growth in both domestic and international markets.
Shane Jones, Alaska Airlines’ fleet and revenue chief, shared insights with CNBC, indicating that the airline anticipates the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) will certify the MAX 10 by the end of this year, with deliveries set to commence in 2027. This move is particularly impactful following Alaska’s merger with Hawaiian Airlines earlier in 2024, which expanded its operational footprint. Previously, the airline had ordered more than 40 MAX 10 units, and this latest order includes options for an additional 35 jets.
In breaking down the new acquisition, 53 aircraft in the latest order are brand new, while 52 are options Alaska is choosing to exercise. Despite Boeing’s backlog of over 6,000 aircraft, Alaska’s decision reflects confidence in the manufacturer, especially given recent challenges. A troubling incident occurred when an Alaska 737 MAX 9 was delivered without crucial bolts, leading to a panel failure shortly after takeoff from Portland in January 2024. Fortunately, no serious injuries were reported, but the event raised questions about Boeing’s quality control, especially in the wake of two fatal MAX crashes in 2018 and 2019.
Under the leadership of CEO Kelly Ortberg, who took over from insider Dave Calhoun shortly after the incident, Boeing has reportedly enhanced its production reliability. Following the door failure, the company faced increased scrutiny and was compelled to improve its safety protocols. The FAA’s approval will be necessary for any increases in the production rate of the MAX, a key element for Alaska’s plans.
Jones reiterated that Alaska’s order is a strong endorsement of Boeing’s turnaround efforts as well as its trust in the MAX 10’s certification process. He indicated that around half of the newly ordered aircraft will replace older models, while the rest are intended to support growth ambitions. While the exact costs of the aircraft remain undisclosed, industry sources note that large customers like Alaska typically enjoy significant discounts off list prices during negotiations.
As Alaska Airlines prepares for this substantial operational shift, the potential impact on efficiency and capacity could bolster its competitive edge on high-demand routes. By strategically investing in modern aircraft, the airline is positioning itself for future growth amid a turbulent recovery phase for the global aviation industry. This significant order not only signals Alaska’s commitment to enhancing its fleet but also provides a clear indicator of their trust in Boeing’s ongoing recovery and production capabilities. As the airline charts its course for the future, its focus on innovation and reliability will be crucial in navigating the evolving landscape of commercial aviation.
Original Source: https://www.cnbc.com/2026/01/07/alaska-airlines-boeing-order-737-10-dreamliners.html
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Publish Date: 2026-01-07 19:30:00
