* Last updated 06:15 AM EST July 20, 2026 by Jake Hardiman *

SMBC Aviation Capital has made waves at the Farnborough International Airshow 2026 with an order for 100 examples of the Boeing 737 MAX 10. The lessor has primarily committed to the stretched 737 MAX 10 model, with this variant making up 60 of the 100 firm orders. This represents the largest single order by a lessor for Boeing’s biggest model from its next-generation narrowbody twinjet series.

The remaining 40 aircraft in this order are examples of the popular Boeing 737 MAX 8 variant. All in all, today’s deal sees SMBC’s 737 MAX portfolio, in combined terms of owned, managed, and committed aircraft, grow to an impressive total of 450 jets. The lessor highlighted the 737 MAX 10’s strong per-seat economics as a key pull factor, alongside strong market demand for larger aircraft.

SMBC’s First MAX 10 Order

Monday, July 20, 06:15 AM EST

Credit: Shutterstock

As well as being the single largest order by a lessor for the Boeing 737 MAX 10, SMBC’s deal represents the first time that it has bought the MAX series’ largest and highest-capacity variant. With this model making up the bulk of the new order, it is certainly a vote of confidence in the Boeing 737 MAX 10, and, indeed, larger and higher-capacity narrowbody twinjet aircraft on a general level.

Indeed, these larger planes, once certified and in service, will, as SMBC CEO Peter Barrett puts it, “support [airlines’] growth ambitions well into the next decade.” Boeing is also confident that the MAX 10 suits SMBC, saying that it will help the Dublin-based aircraft leasing firm “meet strong market demand for larger single-aisle jets, diversify its asset mix and capture a new customer base.” Barrett adds that:

“Our partnership with Boeing spans over two decades, and this order reflects market dynamics as our airline and investor customers look to upgauge to the 737 MAX 10.”