Kazakhstan-based SCAT Airlines has placed a firm order for five Boeing 737-9 aircraft and converted five previously ordered 737-8 jets to the larger 737-9 variant.[2][3]
The agreement, announced on April 29, 2026, in Shymkent, Kazakhstan, shifts ten aircraft in SCAT’s backlog to the 737-9 configuration. This previously unidentified order on Boeing’s tracker will expand the airline’s planned 737-9 fleet to 15 aircraft.[2][5]
The 737-9, the largest variant of the 737 MAX currently in service, provides greater seating capacity and range compared to the 737-8.[2] SCAT intends to use the additional capacity for longer-range single-aisle routes from Kazakhstan, including more services to Europe and potential seventh-freedom operations.[2][3]
SCAT President Vladimir Denissov stated that the fleet update meets growing passenger demand and supports an expanding international network. He noted that the changes enhance seating capacity per flight and improve schedule reliability.[2]
SCAT currently operates nine 737-8s and five 737-9s as part of a fleet of nearly 40 Boeing aircraft. This follows an order for seven 737-8s announced at the 2023 Dubai Airshow.[2][5]