Boeing (NYSE: BA) and Alaska Airlines have jointly announced what is now the largest airplane order in the history of the airline, setting a new milestone in fleet investment that positions the carrier for sustained growth across domestic and international markets. The announcement, released on January 7, 2026, reflects the culmination of a six-decade partnership between the U.S. manufacturing giant and the Seattle-based airline.
Under the agreement, Alaska Airlines will purchase 105 Boeing 737-10 narrow-body aircraft — the largest variant in the 737 MAX family — with options for 35 additional 737-10 jets. This expansion significantly strengthens the carrier’s capacity on high-density domestic routes while modernizing its existing fleet.
In addition to the 737-10 order, Alaska Airlines will acquire five Boeing 787 Dreamliners, marking a major step in its long-haul expansion strategy. The inclusion of widebody aircraft will enable Alaska to extend and diversify its international service, including transoceanic flights to Europe and Asia.
Strategic Growth and Fleet Modernization
The scope of the order — widely reported as 110 aircraft in total when combining firm orders and widebody jets — represents the largest single aircraft commitment in Alaska Airlines’ corporate history. The deal also extends the airline’s delivery stream through the mid-2030s and further solidifies its total order book with Boeing.
Ben Minicucci, CEO and President of Alaska Air Group, described the fleet investment as a cornerstone of the carrier’s Alaska Accelerate strategic plan, emphasizing its role in supporting long-term growth. He highlighted the importance of newer, more fuel-efficient aircraft in enhancing customer experience and operational efficiency.
From Boeing’s perspective, the agreement continues to demonstrate strong market confidence in its commercial aircraft portfolio amid ongoing efforts to scale production and secure regulatory approvals for larger 737 MAX variants.
Industry and Market Implications
Analysts view the record purchase as a strategic vote of confidence both for Boeing’s manufacturing capabilities and for Alaska Airlines’ future route expansion. The addition of Dreamliners to the airline’s fleet provides flexible capacity for long-haul service, a competitive advantage in international markets.
Market response to the announcement was mixed: Boeing’s shares experienced modest gains following the news, while Alaska Airlines’ stock saw slight declines as investors weighed the long-term capital expenditure against expected future growth.
The announcement underscores a broader trend in commercial aviation, with carriers investing in modern, fuel-efficient fleets to capture post-pandemic travel demand and meet sustainability targets. For Alaska Airlines, the deal marks a pivotal moment in its evolution from a regional carrier into a network airline with global aspirations.
Outlook
Deliveries under the agreement are anticipated to extend over the coming decade, aligning with Alaska Airlines’ phased growth strategy and Boeing’s production schedule. Both companies reaffirm their longstanding relationship and commitment to innovation in commercial aviation as they pursue the next chapter of growth.