Dubai Aerospace Enterprise (DAE) Ltd has made a significant move in aviation leasing, announcing a new agreement with Turkish Airlines for the long-term lease of 10 Boeing 737-8 aircraft.
Firoz Tarapore, Chief Executive Officer of DAE, said, “We are delighted to further deepen our already strong and long-term relationship with Turkish Airlines and to provide them a solution to their growing fleet requirements with these new technology, fuel efficient aircraft. We thank Turkish Airlines for their ongoing trust in DAE and wish them much success with their new fleet additions.”
The addition of these 10 Boeing 737-8 aircraft is a testament to DAE’s growing influence in the aviation leasing sector. Currently, DAE owns, manages, and has commitments to own a total of 96 aircraft from the 737 MAX family.
About Boeing 737 MAX Family
The Boeing 737 MAX is poised to become a mainstay in short-haul aviation for the foreseeable future. Available in four distinct variants – the MAX 7, 8, 9, and the extended MAX 10 – it serves as the successor to the -700, -800, and -900 models of the 737NG family. This family holds the title of the best-selling commercial aircraft series in the history of aviation, and the 737 MAX variants are designed to continue this legacy of success and innovation.
Unique Features of the Boeing 737-8
The Boeing 737 MAX 8 stands as a marvel in the aviation industry, bringing a plethora of unique features that set it apart in the single-aisle market. One of the most notable aspects is its enhanced efficiency. This aircraft, by integrating advanced technology winglets and highly efficient engines, achieves a remarkable 20 percent reduction in fuel use and emissions, positioning it as a leader in environmentally-friendly aviation. Additionally, it generates a 50 percent smaller noise footprint than its predecessors, making it a more considerate option for communities near airports. Economically, the 737 MAX 8 excels with up to 14 percent lower airframe maintenance costs compared to its competitors, presenting a cost-effective solution for airlines.
In terms of design and passenger experience, the Boeing 737 MAX 8 excels with its Boeing Sky Interior. This unique feature includes modern sculpted sidewalls and window reveals, which, along with LED lighting, create an enhanced sense of spaciousness and comfort inside the cabin. The aircraft’s specifications further contribute to its uniqueness: According to Turkish Airlines’ configuration, it has a passenger capacity of 151, a substantial maximum take-off weight of 82,190 kg, and a wingspan of 35.90 meters. The body length of 39.52 meters and a height of 12.30 meters allow for a comfortable and spacious interior, while its impressive maximum cruising altitude of 12,000 meters (39,400 feet) and a maximum cargo capacity of 45.05 m³ ensure both operational efficiency and ample space for passenger luggage. These features collectively make the Boeing 737 MAX 8 an exceptional aircraft, balancing technical efficiency, environmental considerations, and passenger comfort.
Is Boeing 737 MAX Safe?
The Boeing 737 MAX family has experienced several notable incidents. According to Wikipedia, on October 29, 2018, Lion Air Flight 610, a 737 MAX 8, crashed into the sea shortly after takeoff from Jakarta, Indonesia, killing all 189 people onboard, making it the deadliest accident in the 737 series. Another tragic incident occurred on March 10, 2019, when Ethiopian Airlines Flight 302, also a 737 MAX 8, crashed minutes after takeoff from Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, resulting in the deaths of all 157 passengers and crew. This crash led to the global grounding of the 737 MAX series.
There have been other less catastrophic incidents as well. On September 30, 2023, United Airlines Flight 329, a 737 MAX 9, experienced an engine fire and tire bursts during takeoff in Denver, but no injuries were reported.
And most recently, on January 5, 2024, Alaska Airlines Flight 1282, another 737 MAX 9, suffered an explosive decompression after takeoff; its door blew off in mid-air, but landed safely with only minor injuries reported and no fatalities. An investigation into the incident revealed that Boeing employees may have failed to put back the bolts that would have sealed the plug door that was ripped off the 737 Max 9 aircraft as it flew 16,000 feet over Oregon in a Jan. 5 flight to California, according to The Wall Street Journal.
The safety of the Boeing 737 MAX series has been a topic of intense scrutiny and debate following the last incidents. However, Turkish Airlines has demonstrated its belief in the Boeing 737 MAX through the lease agreement with DAE, signaling strong confidence in the aircraft’s capabilities and future. In addition to Turkish Airlines, Ryanair has also emerged as a staunch supporter of the Boeing 737 MAX, further solidifying the aircraft’s standing in the global aviation industry. Ryanair’s CEO Michael O’Leary has not only endorsed Boeing’s leadership but has also expressed readiness to acquire any Boeing 737 MAX aircraft that other carriers like United Airlines might forego. This collective support from major airlines like Turkish Airlines and Ryanair underscores the ongoing commitment and trust in the Boeing 737 MAX series.
