India's Jet Airways Buys $9 Billion Worth of Boeing 737s

Jet Airways ordered on Monday 75 Boeing 737 MAX 8s, a major expansion for India's second-largest airline. The purchase by the Mumbai-based carrier was previously included as an unidentified firm in Boeing's tally; the event today at the Farnborough Airshow was a signing ceremony for the $8.8B order.

Jet Airways has a fleet of nearly 120 airplanes serving more than 60 destinations in 15 countries across Asia, Europe and North America, with a primary focus on India. (The airline is a partner of Delta's, so you can earn and redeem Skymiles for your next trip internally in India.)

On the sidelines of the announcement, Ihssane Mounir, SVP Global Sales & Marketing at Boeing, noted that demand by carriers in India is very strong, and that this order represents the second time the airline has purchased 75 Boeing 737 aircraft.

"It's not simply aircraft," he said. "We're helping with infrastructure and logistics, and a have a whole team dedicated to support them."

Jet Airways also has 10 Boeing 787 on order for its long-haul routes.

"Our latest order for 75 additional Boeing 737 MAX aircraft reflects our long-standing association with Boeing and reposes our faith in the aircraft they manufacture," said Naresh Goyal, Chairman of Jet Airways, in a release.

"The MAX will allow us to offer guests a superior and well differentiated experience using a modern, reliable and fuel efficient fleet. The order also emphasizes Jet Airways' commitment to the growth and potential of the Indian aviation market."

Jet Airways recently announced it was eliminating first-class seats on its international long-haul flights, presumably including the Boeing 787s which are yet to be delivered.