Oman Air received its first 737 MAX airplane from Boeing yesterday (January 31), one of 30 that Oman Air will operate as it expands its fleet and service.

The flag carrier of Oman has long operated the efficient and reliable Boeing 737.  With the MAX, Oman Air will be able to achieve a double-digit percentage improvement in fuel efficiency.

"At Oman Air, offering the best possible on board experience is key to our success and the 737 MAX has already earned a reputation for its exceptional performance, efficiency and guest experience," said Abdulaziz Al-Raisi, acting CEO, Oman Air.

"The aircraft will be a perfect complement to our 737 family as we continue to expand our operations and play an increasingly active role in promoting Oman for business as well as a unique tourism destination, which is growing rapidly in popularity with every passing year."

The 737 MAX is a family of airplanes that incorporate the latest technology CFM International LEAP-1B engines, Advanced Technology winglets, Boeing Sky Interior, large flight deck displays, and other improvements to deliver the highest efficiency, reliability and passenger comfort in the single-aisle market. In Oman Air's configuration, its MAX 8 airplane will seat 162 passengers.

The 12 new, specially-designed business class seats will be electrically-controlled offering passengers more privacy with enhanced trim and finishes, whilst the 150 seats in economy will also feature a refreshed interior. While the business class will offer a 17-inch Thales Gen V, touch-screen AVANTE monitor, economy will have a similar 10.2-inch monitor.  In addition, there will be high powered USB port for each passenger regardless of class.

Oman Air ordered 20 MAX airplanes in October 2015 and has since entered into a lease agreement for 10 more of the jets. The new airplanes will grow the Muscat-based carrier's fleet of 27 737s and seven 787 Dreamliners.

"Today marks another milestone in our 25-year partnership with Oman Air. We are proud to have supported their growth and we look forward to the 737 MAX taking the airline to new heights," said Marty Bentrott, Sales vice president for Middle East, Turkey, Russia, Central Asia & Africa.

The 737 MAX is the fastest-selling airplane in Boeing history, accumulating more than 4,300 orders to date from 92 customers worldwide. In the Middle East, Boeing currently has a backlog of over 300 737 MAXs with four airlines. – TradeArabia News Service