AI Express among 3 target operators in Ind for new 737 MAX:

Air India Express along with SpiceJet and Jet Airways is one of the three main targets for Boeing in the country as it promotes its new 737 MAX aircraft, which is scheduled to enter commercial operations in 2017.
"SpiceJet, Jet Airways and Air India Express are the three target customers for the new Boeing 737 MAX planes, which already have 737 engines.
"We think this airplane can further enhance (these airlines') profitability," said Dinesh Keskar, Senior Vice- President (Sales, Asia Pacific and India) of Boeing.
The 737 MAX is the latest aircraft from the US-based manufacturer. It comes with winglets that helps reduce fuel consumption by an additional 1.5 per cent.

The plane, which the company claims would have more range, 14 per cent less fuel consumption and 40 per cent more noise reduction, has already completed its "firm configuration" phase this year.
The design phase will begin next year and the first aircrafts would be ready by 2015.

The 737 MAX, Boeing's answer to rival Airbus's A-320 New Engine Option or NEO, is scheduled to make its first flight in 2016 and deliveries to the first customers are expected to start in the fourth quarter of 2017.
Addressing a press conference here, Keskar said that Boeing was feeling bullish about the prospects of the Indian market.

"The forecast that Boeing made about India requiring about 1,450 aircraft over the next 20 years stands.
"It does not change because of difficulties in the market," Keskar said, adding that Boeing had 8,098 firm orders from 134 airlines and leasing companies for the plane.