ANA cements MAX order, selects 777-8F

There was cause for double celebration at Boeing on day 1 of the Farnborough Airshow after Japanese-based ANA HOLDINGS confirmed its order for the 737 MAX, as well as selecting the 777-8F.

With a signing ceremony held today (July 18) at Farnborough, these developments came after ANA HOLDINGS – the parent company of All Nippon Airways (ANA) – formalised an order for 20 examples of the CFM International LEAP-1B-powered 737 MAX 8, plus options for an additional ten airframes. Consequently, ANA will become Japan’s maiden MAX operator.

Meanwhile, the Tokyo-based firm has chosen the 777-8F – the first carrier to do so in Asia – after converting a pair of 777-9 orders. As a result of this update, ANA’s 777-9 commitments drop from an initial 20 to 18 following the switch. Benefits of the 777-8F will include the ability of being able to transport up to an extra ten tonnes more payload when compared with the 777F.

Koji Shibata, president and CEO of ANA HOLDINGS, commented: "We are pleased to partner with Boeing to introduce new airplanes into our world-class fleet that further our commitment to sustainable aviation. The efficiency, reliability and range capability of the 737 MAX make it an ideal airplane to refresh our narrowbody fleet and provide our passengers with the highest level of comfort onboard. In addition, the 777-8F freighters will add flexibility and efficiency to our air cargo network. The 737 and 777 have long been a mainstay of the ANA fleet, and we look forward to continuing our partnership with Boeing with these new airplanes."

At the time of writing, ANA’s orderbook with Boeing now stands at 61
At the time of writing, ANA’s orderbook with Boeing now stands at 61 Boeing

Stan Deal, president and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes, added: "This is a tremendous milestone for ANA and Boeing as the airline has selected the 737 [MAX] 8 and 777-8F freighter to further strengthen its passenger and cargo operations. ANA has remained at the forefront of commercial aviation by consistently investing in the latest airplane technology, providing their passengers with an unparalleled flying experience and more sustainable options to travel and deliver goods around the globe."

At the time of writing, ANA’s orderbook with Boeing now stands at 61 – with models such as the 737 MAX, 777X and 787 Dreamliner. At present, the airline fields a large fleet, including more than 170 from the Arlington, Virginia-headquartered manufacturer.