(July 20): Boeing Co locked down a major order from leasing company SMBC Aviation Capital, the first standout deal at the Farnborough International Airshow.

SMBC will buy 100 737 Max jets, including 60 of the larger Max 10 variant and 40 Max 8s, the company announced Monday. Bloomberg News earlier reported the potential SMBC order.

Aircraft lessors have become an increasingly important customer base for Airbus SE and Boeing, providing airlines with flexibility to modernise their fleets without having to outright buy expensive aircraft. The single-aisle models like the 737 and the A320 are the most widely flown aircraft in commercial aviation, making them the most liquid and popular part of the jet leasing industry.

This year’s air show, which alternates annually with the exhibition in Paris, marks an opportunity for Boeing to be more active with deals after the US company sat out last year’s event in the wake of an aircraft accident that occurred a few days before the gathering.

Air shows are typically venues where Airbus and Boeing try to lock down major aircraft commitments and then unveil them during signing ceremonies.  

SMBC cemented its status as the world’s second-largest aircraft lessor behind Aercap with the acquisition of Air Lease Corp, which was completed this year.

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