Japan Airlines Adds More 737 MAXs

The airline is growing its short-haul fleet.

A Japan Airlines 737 MAX 8 (Photo: JAL Group)

[ Aircraft Orders and Deliveries ]March 19, 2025 3:58 pm ET

By Pete Ainsley

Japan Airlines will introduce 17 Boeing 737 MAX 8s to its fleet in anticipation of strong domestic travel demand. It comes after a recent order of 77 aircraft from its rival, All Nippon Airways. The airline group says it is looking forward to welcoming a total of approximately 90 aircraft in the coming years.

In 2023, Japan Airlines also acquired 21 737 MAX jets to replace the single-aisle Boeing 737-800s mainly operating on domestic routes. A total number of 38 new Boeing 737 MAX 8s are expected to be delivered by 2026.

Earlier, the airline confirmed an order of 11 Airbus A321neos to replace Boeing 767s operating to and from Tokyo Haneda Airport. The new aircraft are expected to be delivered by 2028.

Significant Growth in International Travel

On the other hand, the group is optimistic about international travel, expecting the fiscal year of 2030 will expand by approximately 1.5 times compared to 2023. The frequencies between Japan to the rest of Asia and North America will be increased.

In response to the demand surge, ZIRAIR, the group’s low-cost carrier, will spread its wings by introducing 10 Boeing 787-9s reassigned from JAL by the early 2030s. Last year, Boeing praised Japan Airlines for being a global Dreamliners ambassador after confirming an order of 10 Boeing 787-9s. The low-cost carrier currently operates international routes with eight Boeing 787-8s.