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Low-cost carrier Air India Express has welcomed the arrival of two Boeing 737 MAX 8 jets from AviLease.

The Boeing 737 MAX 8 jets are the first of six that will eventually join the airline from the leasing firm.

Founded in 2022, AviLease is wholly owned by the Saudi Arabian Public Investment Fund (PIF).

Air India Express, itself owned by Air India, is scheduled to receive the additional 737-8s before the end of 2024.

AviLease CEO Edward O’Byrne said: “We are delighted to deliver the first two of six new Boeing 737-8 aircraft to Air India Express. Our partnership with Air India continues to strengthen under Tata Group ownership and we are proud to support their fleet modernization program.”

O’Byrne added: “We wish the Air India Express team continued success with their commitment to provide affordable and reliable air travel to its customers.”

Within its two-year lifespan, AviLease has been expanding rapidly, not least by buying Standard Chartered����Ӱҵ aircraft leasing business in August 2023.

According to , AviLease has a portfolio of 150 aircraft, including 43 Boeing 737-800s, 14 737-8s and 45 Airbus A320neos.

Air India Express’ current active fleet consists of 25 737-800s, 18 737-8s, 4 A320neos and a single A320-200.

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• Airlines

byIan Molyneaux

2024-05-09