RIYADH, Saudi Arabia – 13 May 2025 — In a landmark move, AviLease, the Saudi-headquartered global aircraft lessor, has placed its first-ever direct order with Boeing for up to 30 737 MAX aircraft. The agreement includes a firm order for 20 737-8 jets with options for an additional 10, supporting AviLease’s aggressive growth strategy and ambition to become one of the top ten aircraft lessors worldwide.
Edward O’Byrne, CEO of AviLease, described the transaction as a significant milestone in the company’s evolution. “We are pleased to conclude our first direct Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) order, complementing our growth strategy towards being at the top of the industry,” he said. “Building on our recently achieved investment-grade ratings, this transaction proves our ability to transact across all market channels, including sale and lease-back, secondary trading, M&A, and now direct OEM purchasing.”
With a current portfolio of 200 aircraft leased to 48 airlines, AviLease is rapidly expanding. This latest deal positions the company to further scale up while offering customers the latest generation of fuel-efficient aircraft. “These new aircraft will accelerate our growth and enable us to deliver the industry’s latest generation, fuel–efficient fleet solutions. We extend our gratitude to the Boeing team for the strong long-term relationship we have built,” O’Byrne added.
The single-aisle 737-8 aircraft are part of Saudi Arabia’s broader strategy to become a leading global aviation hub. The order supports the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 goal of serving 330 million passengers and attracting 150 million visitors annually.
Boeing welcomed the agreement as a strengthening of their ties with a strategic Middle Eastern partner. “We are honoured to strengthen our relationship with a key Saudi Arabian commercial aviation partner and expand the global 737 MAX fleet,” said Brad McMullen, senior vice president of Commercial Sales and Marketing at Boeing. “The 737 MAX will diversify AviLease’s portfolio by delivering unrivalled fuel efficiency and market-leading versatility. It’s a powerful combination that will fuel AviLease’s profitable global expansion and support their airline customers’ business and sustainability goals.”
The Boeing 737 remains a cornerstone of the global leasing industry, representing nearly 30% of all financed aircraft worldwide. This latest transaction marks a critical step for AviLease as it continues its ascent on the international stage.
SOURCE AND IMAGE: BOEING
