Video: Boeing delivers its 7,500th 737 to Malaysian start-up Malindo Air

Boeing has delivered a 737-900ER, the 7,500th 737 to come off the production line to Malaysia-based Malindo Air. The aircraft in a two class configuration, 18 business class and 164 economy class seats, features the Boeing Sky Interior featuring sculpted side-walls, improved window reveals, LED lighting and larger pivoting overhead baggage storage. The Boeing 737 is the best-selling commercial jetliner of all time with total orders exceeding 10,500 airplanes.

Malindo Air is a joint venture by Jakarta, Indonesia-based Lion Air and Malaysia’s National Aerospace and Defence Industries (NADI). The name “Malindo” comse from the names of respective countries: Malaysia and Indonesia.

Malindo is a response by Lion Air after the entry of AirAsia from Malaysia, in to their home turf of Indonesia. AirAsia’s subsidiary Indonesia AirAsia, in partnership with its parent firm, bought Indonesian carrier Batavia Air to gain foothold in the Indonesian market. Mr Chandran Ramamuthy, personal assistant executive to the president director of Lion Air, has been appointed as CEO of Malindo Air. The airline inaugural flights will be operational from 22nd of March.

Malindo will take a hybrid approach to differentiate itself from the bare bones low cost AirAsia. Malindo will provide a personal TV IFE (in-flight entertainment) system in every seat, free snacks or meals, seat pitches of 32″ and 45″ for economy class and business class respectively, and a free baggage allowance of 15 kg and 30 kg. The airline also plans to add in-flight Wi-Fi service.

Images courtesy Randy’s Journal

About Devesh Agarwal

A electronics and automotive product management, marketing and branding expert, he was awarded a silver medal at the Lockheed Martin innovation competition 2010. He is ranked 6th on Mashable's list of aviation pros on Twitter and in addition to Bangalore Aviation, he has contributed to leading publications like Aviation Week, Conde Nast Traveller India, The Economic Times, and The Mint (a Wall Street Journal content partner). He remains a frequent flier and shares the good, the bad, and the ugly about the Indian aviation industry without fear or favour.

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