The Luxembourg-based airline is investing more than one billion euros in renewing its fleet. The two Boeing aircraft taken delivery of this Friday are the first 737-8s it has owned. Ten more next-generation aircraft are due to follow.

Luxair was already operating two Boeing 737-8s. However, it was leasing them. The arrival of two aircraft purchased by the airline marks a new phase in its fleet renewal programme, which is set to continue until the mid-2030s.

The aircraft were unveiled on Friday 28 August in Luxair’s maintenance hangar at Luxembourg Airport, in the presence of the Minister for Mobility and Public Works, Yuriko BackesYuriko Backes, and representatives from Boeing. These flights are set to mark the start of commercial operations for the new-generation 737s owned directly by the airline.

Luxair had ordered these two aircraft in March 2023, whilst also leasing two further 737-8s to gain immediate access to additional capacity. These leased aircraft have been operated by the airline’s own crews since the summer of 2023.

“The arrival of our first two Boeing 737-8s, which we own outright, marks an important milestone in the renewal of our fleet and in our long-standing partnership with Boeing. We are making a significant investment in a new generation of aircraft that will enable us to operate more efficiently, significantly reduce our noise footprint, enhance our service offering and prepare Luxair for the future. At the same time, we remain true to what makes Luxair unique: our full-service airline model, our staff, our strong roots in Luxembourg and the quality of the travel experience we offer our customers,” says Gilles Feith, CEO of Luxair.

The programme comprises 12 new-generation Boeing aircraft, plus two options. Following the conversion of two options announced in July, the firm order book now comprises eight 737-8s and four 737-10s. The two additional options are also for the 737-10.

A more comprehensive renewal

These orders form part of a wider fleet renewal programme, which also includes the Embraer E195-E2s. Luxair estimates the total investment at over one billion euros. In the first half of 2026, it had already taken delivery of four Embraer E195-E2s, prior to the two Boeing aircraft unveiled on Friday. The older-generation aircraft are to be phased out gradually.

For the government, the investment goes beyond simply replacing ageing aircraft. “This new phase in the renewal of Luxair’s fleet highlights the important role the airline plays in strengthening Luxembourg’s connectivity and laying the foundations for its future growth. This investment supports robust air links, tailored to the needs of both the national economy and passengers. It demonstrates a commitment to balancing operational performance with environmental progress through more efficient aircraft, offering improved energy efficiency and a reduced noise footprint. This new fleet will help maintain the high standard of service that Luxair’s customers have come to expect, whilst further enhancing the airline’s contribution to Luxembourg’s appeal. “Beyond its economic importance, Luxair plays a vital role in connecting people and supporting the multicultural character of our society,” says Yuriko Backes.

Configured to carry up to 186 passengers, the Boeing 737-8 has a stated maximum range of 5,740 kilometres. Luxair uses it in particular for the longest flights in its network. The airline also highlights 30-inch seat pitch, larger windows, enlarged overhead lockers and customisable LED lighting.

50 years of partnership in 2027

According to figures provided by Luxair and Boeing, the aircraft reduces fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions by around 20 per cent2 compared with the aircraft they are replacing. Luxair has also announced a 50 per cent reduction in noise levels. These figures describe the comparative performance of the aircraft models, rather than an equivalent reduction in the airline’s total emissions, which also depends on the number of flights and passengers carried.

“We are delighted to mark an important milestone in Luxair’s fleet modernisation and growth strategy with the delivery of two new 737-8s owned by the airline. Luxair’s acquisition of these two 737-8s underlines its commitment to delivering an exceptional passenger experience whilst developing more efficient and sustainable operations. We attach great importance to our partnership with Luxair and are honoured by the trust the airline continues to place in Boeing. “Our teams remain fully committed to supporting Luxair, from the delivery and integration of the aircraft through to ongoing operational support, to help the airline achieve its goals in terms of service quality, connectivity and sustainability,” said Jonas Degerth, Sales Director for Europe at Boeing.

The American manufacturer and the Luxembourg-based airline will celebrate 50 years of partnership in 2027. Luxair’s first Boeing, a 737-200, joined its fleet in 1977. Several generations followed, from the 737-400 and 737-500 to the 737-700 and 737-800.

The aim of standardising the fleet around the Boeing 737 and Embraer E2 families is to reduce the complexity of training, maintenance and day-to-day operations. It will also give Luxair greater capacity on routes where demand warrants it. The programme is therefore not merely about replacing aircraft: it paves the way for an expansion of services from Luxembourg, whilst maintaining the full-service regional airline model championed by Luxair.