Boeing Scores Big on Day 1 with SMBC 737 MAX Deal

Our Bureau - : Jul 20, 2026 - : 10:28 pm

Boeing secured one of the largest commercial announcements on the opening day of the Farnborough International Airshow after SMBC Aviation Capital placed an order for 100 Boeing 737 MAX aircraft, reinforcing demand for next-generation narrowbody jets despite continuing production constraints.

The agreement covers 60 Boeing 737-10 aircraft and 40 Boeing 737-8s, marking SMBC Aviation Capital's first order for the larger 737-10 variant. The aircraft will expand the lessor's portfolio as airlines continue seeking more fuel-efficient single-aisle aircraft for short- and medium-haul operations.

Stephanie Pope, President and Chief Executive Officer of Boeing Commercial Airplanes, said the order reflected continued market confidence in the 737 MAX family. "This commitment, including SMBC's first 737-10 order, reflects the strong demand we are seeing for the 737 MAX family's efficiency, reliability and versatility," she said.

Leasing Demand

SMBC Aviation Capital said the order would support airline customers looking to expand fleets while facing extended delivery timelines for new aircraft.

Peter Barrett, Chief Executive Officer of SMBC Aviation Capital, said: "This order reflects market dynamics as our airline and investor customers look to upgauge to the 737-10. This order will support their growth ambitions well into the next decade and reflects our strong confidence in the Boeing 737 MAX and sustained demand for fuel-efficient, technologically advanced narrowbody aircraft."

The Dublin-based lessor is one of the world's largest aircraft leasing companies and the latest purchase will provide additional aircraft for airline customers as global demand for single-aisle aircraft continues to outpace production.

Production Focus

The announcement comes as Boeing continues increasing 737 MAX production following regulatory approval to raise monthly output after earlier manufacturing restrictions. Company executives have repeatedly said improving production stability and delivery performance remains their priority as they work through a substantial backlog of aircraft orders.

Boeing also noted that aircraft leasing companies remain a key driver of future sales. According to the manufacturer, lessors have ordered more than 1,450 Boeing 737 MAX aircraft, representing around 20% of the programme's total backlog, highlighting the sector's growing role in supplying airlines with new-generation aircraft.

Boeing / Boeing-737-max / Smbc-aviation-capital / 737-10 / Stephanie-pope /