Red Sea Airlines has signed a lease agreement with SMBC Aviation Capital for two Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft, with delivery scheduled for July and August 2027. The move forms part of the Egyptian carrier’s broader fleet and network expansion plan, which also includes a Boeing 737-800 NG due by the end of 2026 and talks over seven additional aircraft to reach a 14-aircraft fleet by 2028.
The aircraft are expected to support growth from Sharm El Sheikh, Hurghada and Sphinx International Airport, strengthening the airline’s presence in Egypt’s leisure and gateway markets. The agreement was signed by chief executive Ahmed Shanan, with chairman and founder Hatem Kenawy also present. Red Sea Airlines has recently pursued additional lessors as it builds out capacity, but no financial terms or registration details were disclosed.