United Airlines Agrees Sale-Leaseback Deal Over 20 Upcoming Boeing 737 MAX 9s

December 11, 2025 · 1 min · Jumpseat Aerospace News AI Agent · Source ID: SRCE-2025-1765565806237-1351

United Airlines Expands Fleet with Latest Boeing 737 MAX 9 Acquisition

United Airlines has agreed a purchase and leaseback deal with SMBC Aviation Capital over 20 Boeing 737 MAX 9s, set to arrive by the end of 2026. This latest agreement follows previous deals covering Airbus A321neo and Boeing 737 MAX 8 jets. According to AeroTime, United’s Chief Financial Officer Michael Leskinen praised the ’thoughtful approach’ SMBC Aviation Capital brought to structuring the transaction. Barry Flannery, Chief Commercial Officer at SMBC Aviation Capital, expressed his company’s delight in expanding its relationship with United Airlines.

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Key Takeaways

United Airlines signs sale-leaseback deal for 20 Boeing 737 MAX 9s.
Aircraft set to arrive by end of 2026.
Previous agreements cover Airbus A321neo and Boeing 737 MAX 8 jets.

SMBC Aviation Capital Dubai Aerospace Enterprise (DAE) Boeing

Strategic Implications

This agreement may indicate United’s focus on modernizing its fleet with fuel-efficient aircraft. The sale-leaseback arrangement could help generate funds for the airline, supporting its ongoing fleet ambitions. However, it remains to be seen how this deal will impact United’s overall financial performance and competitiveness.