SILKAIR is set to begin its fleet transition to Boeing aircraft, having sealed a deal with the aircraft maker for 54 planes totalling a hefty US$4.9 billion.
The airline’s order for 23 Next-Generation 737-800s and 31 737 Max 8s is the largest order in the airline’s history.
Both models are said to fly farther than competing airplanes, enabling the airline to open new routes. They also feature the Boeing Sky Interior, which has modern sculpted sidewalls and larger pivoting overhead stowage bins, among other highlights.
The 737 Max 8 builds on the Next-Generation 737 and comes with engines that deliver a 13 per cent fuel-use improvement rate over the most fuel-efficient single-aisle airplanes today and an eight per cent operating cost per seat advantage over future competitors, said a joint SilkAir-Boeing press release.
“The capability of the 737s will enable us to spread our wings to even more destinations and increase capacity on existing routes,” said SilkAir chief executive Leslie Thng.
