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Transition from Airbus to Boeing: Vueling to Receive 50 737 MAX Starting in 2026

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Barcelona-based airline Vueling has been assigned 50 Boeing aircraft by its parent company, IAG, marking the beginning of its gradual shift away from Airbus. This change represents a significant transformation for the airline and is part of an ambitious fleet renewal plan set to begin in late 2026.

Firm Order for 50 Aircraft with Options for 100 More

The order falls under a contract announced by IAG in May 2022. Although the group formalized the order two years ago, it was only during the recent semi-annual results presentation that it was confirmed these 50 Boeing 737s—25 of the 8200 model and 25 of the 737-10—would be allocated to Vueling. Additionally, the airline has options to acquire 100 more 737-8200 units.

According to IAG data, the list price for the first 50 aircraft stands at $6.25 billion, while the full acquisition of 150 units would raise the figure to $18.75 billion. However, the group clarifies that these prices are subject to a “substantial discount.”

Deliveries Delayed Due to Industrial Bottlenecks

The original schedule planned for the delivery of the 50 committed units between 2023 and 2027. However, widespread delays in the aerospace industry have pushed the start of deliveries to late 2026. Vueling will receive three aircraft in the first year, with the rest gradually incorporated by 2029.

→ Ryanair Reaffirms Commitment to 737 MAX 10 After Boeing’s Guarantees

Complex Transition, Key Investment

During the transition process, which will last six to seven years, the company will operate both Airbus and Boeing models simultaneously—a situation that increases operational costs. To address this challenge, Vueling will implement a specific plan to mitigate the financial impact and reorganize its cost structure. “The investment in fleet and transformation will allow Vueling to restructure its cost base and drive the company’s development,” explained CEO Carolina Martinoli.

Luis Gallego, CEO of IAG, confirmed that the medium-term goal is to replace the entire Airbus fleet with Boeing aircraft, provided the planned strategy is executed successfully.

A Bet on Efficiency in Low-Cost Aviation

Low-cost airlines like Vueling typically operate a homogeneous fleet to simplify maintenance, reduce staff training time, and optimize operations. The move to Boeing, with its 737-8200 and 737-10 models, aims to achieve precisely that: operational efficiency and sustained long-term savings.

With a carefully planned fleet transition and substantial investment, Vueling is preparing to redefine its future in the competitive aviation market.

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