This article is based on an official press release from Aviation Capital Group.

Aviation Capital Group Delivers Two Boeing 737 MAX 8s to WestJet

Aviation Capital Group LLC (ACG), a global aircraft asset manager, announced on February 26, 2026, that it has successfully delivered two Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft to WestJet. The delivery, which took place in Seattle, marks the completion of a sale-and-leaseback transaction between the lessor and the Canadian airline.

According to the company’s statement, these aircraft are equipped with CFM LEAP-1B engines and are intended to support WestJet’s ongoing fleet modernization and network expansion. The handover comes as WestJet celebrates its 30th anniversary, a milestone noted by ACG executives during the announcement.

Transaction Details and Executive Commentary

The deal was structured as a sale-and-leaseback agreement, a common financial mechanism in aviation where an airline sells its aircraft to a lessor and immediately leases them back. This approach allows carriers to maintain operation of the assets while freeing up capital. In its press release, ACG confirmed that both aircraft were delivered earlier this week.

Carter A. White, Chief Commercial Officer at ACG, emphasized the continuity of the partnership between the two companies. In the press release, White stated:

“We are delighted to complete the delivery of two Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft and to strengthen our long-standing relationship with WestJet. These modern, fuel-efficient aircraft will support WestJet’s fleet expansion and continued growth.”

White also extended congratulations to the airline on its three decades of operation, wishing the team continued success.

WestJet Fleet Context

While the ACG release focused on the specific delivery, the arrival of these 737 MAX 8s aligns with WestJet’s broader strategy to utilize fuel-efficient narrowbody aircraft for both domestic and international routes. The Boeing 737 MAX 8 is designed to offer improved fuel efficiency and reduced noise compared to previous generation aircraft, factors that ACG highlighted as key benefits for the airline’s growth.

As of December 31, 2025, Aviation Capital Group reported a portfolio of approximately 450 owned, managed, and committed aircraft, leased to roughly 85 airlines globally. This transaction reinforces ACG’s position as a significant partner for major North American carriers.

AirPro News analysis

The completion of this sale-and-leaseback transaction highlights a continued reliance on the Boeing 737 MAX 8 for WestJet’s operational strategy in 2026. For WestJet, securing these aircraft via lease rather than direct ownership likely provides immediate liquidity, a strategic advantage as the airline expands its transatlantic footprint this summer. The timing of the delivery in Seattle suggests these airframes will enter service promptly, bolstering capacity during a critical anniversary year for the carrier.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a sale-and-leaseback transaction?
A sale-and-leaseback is a financial transaction where an airline sells an aircraft to a leasing company (like ACG) and immediately leases it back. This allows the airline to unlock the capital tied up in the aircraft while retaining the ability to fly it.

What engines power these Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft?
According to the ACG press release, the two delivered aircraft are powered by CFM LEAP-1B engines.

How large is Aviation Capital Group’s portfolio?
As of the end of 2025, ACG managed, owned, or had committed to approximately 450 aircraft leased to airlines in about 50 countries.

Sources

• Aviation Capital Group