AerFin has agreed to acquire 44 Boeing 737NG aircraft and their 88 CFM56-7B engines from Qantas, in the largest transaction to date for the British aviation aftermarket specialist. The aircraft are due to transfer over seven years, with the first expected in 2026. The phased schedule allows Qantas to retire most of its 737 fleet as replacement aircraft arrive while retaining flexibility over individual withdrawals.
Qantas operates 79 Boeing 737-800s, according to Aviation Week. The airline is introducing Airbus A321XLRs for its domestic fleet, having ordered 28 in 2022 and a further 20 subsequently. Seven had been delivered at the time of reporting, with 41 still on order. Jetstar has a separate order for 12 A321XLRs, with deliveries expected from 2027.
The acquisition will provide AerFin with aircraft, engines and parts for its aftermarket operations, which serve airlines, lessors and maintenance providers. Qantas Domestic CEO Markus Svensson described the agreement as a way to plan for the retirement of most of the 737 fleet while adjusting the timing as new aircraft arrive. The deal value, aircraft identities and detailed transfer schedule have not been disclosed.