- First of 18 737-8 aircraft leased to SMBC Aviation Capital to join Egypt’s national airline fleet
- The 737 MAX is key to EgyptAir’s modernization strategy
CAIRO, May 3, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Boeing (NYSE: BA) and EgyptAir announced today that the Egyptian national airline took delivery of its first 737 MAX. The 737-8 is the first of 18 aircraft leased from SMBC Aviation Capital to be delivered and represents the first 737 MAX in Egypt.
“The delivery of our first Boeing 737 MAX marks an important milestone in our fleet modernization strategy. By integrating the 737-8 into our operations, EgyptAir Holding is committed to providing our passengers with a superior travel experience while achieving greater operational efficiency,” said Captain Ahmed Adel, President and CEO of EgyptAir Holding Company. “This aircraft’s advanced technology and reduced environmental footprint align perfectly with our vision of sustainable growth and our dedication to maintaining a young, state-of-the-art fleet that connects Egypt to the world.”
The 737-8 complements EgyptAir’s fleet of 30 next-generation 737 aircraft with common operating characteristics and improved efficiency, reducing fuel use and emissions by 20% compared to the aircraft it replaces. As part of its fleet renewal program, EgyptAir will deploy the new aircraft on short and medium-haul routes to destinations such as Paris, Brussels, Istanbul and Vienna.
“We are delighted to support EgyptAir in welcoming its first 737-8 and advancing its fleet modernization strategy,” said Barry Flannery, chief commercial officer at SMBC Aviation Capital. “This delivery underlines our long-standing partnership with Boeing and our commitment to providing EgyptAir with efficient next-generation aircraft that improve operational performance and provide a better passenger experience.”
Passengers on board EgyptAir’s 737 MAX aircraft will experience a new level of comfort with the Boeing Sky Interior, which features advanced LED lighting, larger windows and spacious overhead bins.
“The delivery of EgyptAir’s first 737 MAX marks an important step toward the airline’s modernization goals and ushers in a new era for Egypt,” said Anbessie Yitbarek, Boeing vice president of Commercial Sales and Marketing for Africa. “The 737 MAX delivers the efficiency, range and passenger comfort that airlines need as they grow and improve their operations. With this delivery, we build on 60 years of partnership with EgyptAir and welcome them as the operator of the 737 MAX.”
EgyptAir is one of the largest and longest serving 737 family operators in Africa; It dates back to 1975, when the airline first ordered this type of aircraft. The airline also operates five 777 and eight 787 Dreamliner aircraft.
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