The first two 737-8s from American manufacturer Boeing mark the official start of Luxair's fleet renewal, and Luxair CEO Gilles Feith made no secret of his pride. "By the mid-2030s, none of the aircraft still in service yesterday will be part of our fleet. We are proud because, for the first time in Luxair's history, the future of all our employees and our entire company is secured thanks to this investment. And this will be for a very long time."
The one billion euro investment will be spread out over 10 to 20 years, explained Feith. The new fleet will consist of nine Embraer and twelve Boeing aircraft, with an option for two additional planes. Addressing the press in front of the Boeing 737-8, Minister of Transport Yuriko Backes also highlighted the advantages of the new aircraft, which can accommodate 186 passengers. "It's a larger aircraft, offering more cabin space for legroom and luggage. Comfort is significantly improved, and it's quieter," Backes explained.
The American manufacturer promises "50% less noise".
The new 737-8 can travel a distance of approximately 5,740 kilometres and consumes even less fuel. Feith said that "the cost of kerosene and exhaust gases, which we also pay as a responsible airline, will be about one and a half million euros lower per year, solely thanks to the savings achieved. This also helps to control costs."
However, despite the potential cost savings, airfares won't necessarily go down. Feith cites staff costs as the main reason.
There is also the issue of safety. On the orders of the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), hundreds of new Boeing 737 Max aircraft must be inspected due to micro-cracks found in previous generations. When questioned about this, the Luxair director told RTL: "I'd never heard of it!"
Boeing representatives are aware of the US directive. The manufacturer has approved and implemented strict precautionary measures, for increased oversight. Jonas Degerth, Boeing Europe's Chief Commercial Officer, stated: "We have further strengthened our safety and quality system. It applies across the entire company and to all aircraft models. Safety is our top priority, as is quality."
Luxair shares these requirements. "This is by far the best agreement we could have reached," Feith declared.
The Boeing 737-8 is particularly well-suited to high-demand routes. Compared to the aircraft it replaces, the new plane offers a reduction of approximately 20% in fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions, as well as a 50% reduction in noise footprint, contributing "to better environmental performance and reduced noise exposure" for residents living near airports, says Luxair.
Passenger comfort is a key focus for the Luxembourg-based airline. Its aircraft are equipped with the Boeing Sky Interior, featuring larger windows, increased overhead compartment capacity, and customisable LED cabin lighting. Luxair continues to apply its 30-inch seat pitch philosophy across its entire fleet, offering a level of comfort above the industry average.
The introduction of these two new aircraft is part of a comprehensive Luxair fleet renewal programme, representing a total investment of over one billion euros.
These are not the first new aircraft to arrive in Luxembourg in 2026. During the first half of the year, Luxair took delivery of four Embraer E195-E2s, followed by the arrival of its first two owned Boeing 737-8s. While other new-generation aircraft will gradually join Luxair's fleet in the coming years, the older-generation aircraft will be progressively retired.
