Privately-owned Indonesian carrier Lion Air has finalised a record order for 230 aircraft from Boeing, including 201 B737 MAXs and 29 Next-Generation B737-900ERs, as it seeks to expand within the Asia-Pacific.
The carrier, which already operates to 36 destinations mainly within the Indonesia archipelago, also placed an option for 150 more aircraft as part of the biggest single aircraft deal in Boeing’s history and which was signed in the presence of US President Obama.
The manufacturer claims the 737 MAX will 10-12% more fuel efficient than current single aisle aircraft.
Lion Air currently operates international services to Vietnam, Kuala Lumpur and Singapore and has made its determination to expand its route network clear. It states on its website that “Soon, you’ll be able to fly extensively throughout the Asia Pacific region with Lion Air”.
Speaking to Reuters on the eve of the Singapore Airshow, CEO Rusdi Kirana told Reuters the with the completion of the aircraft deal, a delayed bid public flotation of the company was now likely to take place within the next two years.
The airline has been embroiled in scandal after two pilots were arrested on drug charges. It also remains on the EU’s list of airlines banned from operating in European airspace.
Kirana said Lion Air currently held a 51% share of the domestic market and aimed to go public when this reached 60%, something he estimated would happen "in the next two years"
