21 November 2019: Air Astana is planning on ordering 30 Boeing 737 MAX 8 airplanes for its new low-cost airline FlyArystan. Both the companies signed a letter of intent for the 30 airplanes with a list price value of $3.6 billion.
Air Astana launched FlyArystan in May to better compete in the growing low-cost segment. The new airline has seen strong ticket sales in just the first few months of operation.
The plan is to expand the fast-growing domestic network, with international services to Moscow commencing next month.
"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," said Peter Foster, President and CEO of Air Astana. "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 has become one of the leading airlines in Central Asia with its deep focus on safety, reliability, efficiency and customer service. At Boeing, we share those same values and are honored to expand our partnership with the 737 MAX," said Stan Deal, president and chief executive officer of Boeing Commercial Airplanes. "We believe the efficiency and reliability built into the 737 MAX will be a great fit for FlyArystan. We look forward to working with Peter and his team finalize an agreement that meets their fleet and operational requirements."