Directors of International Airlines Group – the holding company for British Airways and several more carriers – approved purchases of 87 new aircraft from Airbus and Boeing. Though unconfirmed, the estimated total outlay based on the list value of the selected aircraft could be as much as $8.95 billion.
IAG, based in Madrid, is a portfolio of commercial airlines formed in 2011. In addition to British Airways, it includes Aer Lingus, Iberia, LEVEL and Vueling (both budget airlines), and IAG Cargo.
The group has not indicated which airlines will receive the new aircraft.
Boeing received the larger assignment from IAG, a total of 50 737 MAX jets (737-8-200s and 737-10s) plus options for 100 more of the same models. Boeing has not clarified how many of each model will be supplied, and the delivery dates have not been reported.
"We welcome today's decision by IAG's shareholders to approve a firm order for 50 737-8-200s and 737-10s, with options for 100 more, and we look forward to working with IAG on reintroducing the 737 into the Group's fleets," stated Boeing SVP Ihssane Mounir.
The order for 37 new A320neo jets from Airbus follows orders in March for 17 A320neos and in June for five A321 neo, meaning IAG has booked contracts for a total of 59 Airbus narrow-body aircraft this year.
