Kazakh flag carrier Air Astana has signed a letter of intent (LoI) for the acquisition of 30 Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft.

Valued at $3.6bn according to list prices, the aircraft will support the carrier’s new low-cost airline, FlyArystan, which was launched in May.

Offering between 130 and 230 seats, Boeing’s 737 MAX 8 can fly up to 7,130km.

The aircraft features CFM International LEAP-1B engine and advanced technology winglets, as well as improves fuel efficiency by 14% compared with other single-aisle aeroplanes.

With Boeing 737 MAX 8, FlyArystan will be able to expand the domestic network. It is set to start international services to Moscow from December.

Air Astana president and CEO Peter Foster said: “Since its launch in May this year, FlyArystan has exceeded all expectations and it is clear that low-cost air travel has a great future in Kazakhstan and Central Asia.

How well do you really know your competitors?

Access the most comprehensive Company Profiles on the market, powered by GlobalData. Save hours of research. Gain competitive edge.

Company Profile – free sample

Thank you!

Your download email will arrive shortly

Not ready to buy yet? Download a free sample

We are confident about the unique quality of our Company Profiles. However, we want you to make the most beneficial decision for your business, so we offer a free sample that you can download by submitting the below form

By GlobalData
Visit our Privacy Policy for more information about our services, how we may use, process and share your personal data, including information of your rights in respect of your personal data and how you can unsubscribe from future marketing communications. Our services are intended for corporate subscribers and you warrant that the email address submitted is your corporate email address.

“Air Astana has had a strong relationship with Boeing ever since the airline started flying in 2002 with a pair of 737NGs. Today, we operate both 757s and 767s and we believe that the MAX will provide a solid platform for the growth of FlyArystan throughout our region, once the aircraft has successfully returned to service.”

Air Astana started operations in May 2002. It serves several major cities in Kazakhstan, Central Asia, Asia, China, Europe and Russia.

The carrier’s current fleet includes Boeing 757, 767 and Airbus A320 family.