Australia’s new LCC airline Bonza takes delivery of first of seven 737 MAXs on order

Australia’s new low-cost-carrier (LCC) Bonza has confirmed it has taken delivery of the first of seven Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft it has committed to receiving during 2022. The arrival ceremony was held at the Sunshine Coast Airport, 90km north of Brisbane, where the LCC will be based.

The new airline, owned by Miami-based investment firm 777 Partners, and founded by its CEO and former Virgin Blue Administrator Tim Jordan, expects to commence operations in late September this year. The domestic carrier will, initially, operate on 27 routes, serving destinations in New South Wales, Queensland and Victoria. Bonza’s operating model has been likened to an Australian version of Ryanair, with all jets being fitted out for all-economy-class travel.

The 737 MAX 8 will enable Bonza to optimise its domestic operations, while reducing fuel use and carbon emissions by 20% and creating a 50% smaller noise footprint compared to previous-generation airplanes. The 737 MAX family of jets uses the latest CFM International LEAP-1B engines, advanced technology winglets and other aerodynamic enhancements, improving performance and reducing operational costs.

“We are beyond excited to welcome our first 737 MAX to Sunshine Coast Airport and with so much buzz around the country for Bonza, we hope today is also exciting for the communities we’ll be flying to,” said Jordan.