Boeing and Avolon announced the Ireland-based lessor intends to purchase 40 more B-737/8 airplanes to expand the lessor's 737 MAX portfolio – consisting of 737/8 and 737/10 variants– to more than 110 jets. Avolon also ordered 40 B-737/8s in June.

The new order is subject to shareholder approval by Bohai Leasing Co, Ltd, Avolon's main shareholder, and will be posted to industry's Orders and Deliveries website when finalized.

The 737 MAX provides Avolon's customers with greater flexibility across their network, while reducing fuel use and emissions by up to 20%. On average each airplane will save up to 8 million pounds of CO2 annually compared to airplanes it replaces.

The 737/8, seating 162 to 210 passengers depending on configuration and with a range of up to 3,500 nautical miles, is the market's most versatile single-aisle airplane, capable of operating on short- and medium-haul routes.