Qantas sells 44 Boeing 737-800s to AerFin

Australian carrier Qantas has sold its fleet of 44 Boeing 737NG (737-800) aircraft to aircraft leasing company AerFin.

The aircraft will be delivered to AerFin over the next seven years, with the first aircraft scheduled to arrive this year.

Qantas currently operates a fleet of 135 aircraft, including 76 Boeing 737-800s, according to Planespotters.net fleet data. Despite the sale of 44 aircraft to AerFin, the airline will continue to operate a significant number of its Boeing 737-800s.

The sale is part of Qantas’ long-term fleet renewal and modernisation programme, under which the airline plans to replace its Boeing 737-800s with new Airbus A321XLR aircraft.

“Our 737s have been the workhorse of the Qantas domestic operation, and will continue flying for us for many years, alongside our growing fleet of next generation aircraft. This agreement allows us to plan for the retirement of the majority of our 737 fleet while also providing flexibility to adjust the timing as new aircraft arrive. We expect to take delivery of up to 24 new aircraft this year, with our next generation fleet improving our operational performance and receiving great customer feedback,” said Markus Svensson, CEO, Qantas Domestic.

AerFin said the deal for the 737NG aircraft and their 88 CFM56-7B engines marks a significant milestone in its continued growth and strengthens its position as a leading global aviation aftermarket specialist.

The transaction will support airline and MRO customers worldwide by providing access to high-quality aircraft material and tailored aftermarket solutions. The agreement also reinforces AerFin’s growing presence in the Asia-Pacific region and highlights its ability to execute complex aviation transactions at scale.

“Completing the largest deal in our history demonstrates the scale of our ambition, the strength of our team and the confidence the market has in our ability to deliver.Transactions of this size require deep technical expertise, strong financial capability and trusted partnerships. We’re proud to be working with Qantas on this agreement and look forward to maximising value from these assets while continuing to support customers across the global aviation aftermarket,” said Simon Goodson, Chief Executive Officer at AerFin.

“The Asia-Pacific market continues to present significant opportunities for the aviation aftermarket, and this transaction further strengthens AerFin’s position in the region. Working closely with Qantas on a deal of this scale reflects the trusted relationships we continue to build with airlines and asset owners worldwide. It also demonstrates our ability to provide flexible, commercially focused solutions that support customers throughout the aircraft lifecycle,” said James Bennett, Chief Commercial Officer at AerFin.

AerFin added that the acquisition forms part of its broader strategy to expand its global aviation asset portfolio and strengthen support for airlines, lessors and MRO providers seeking reliable aftermarket solutions.