DALLAS — After years of anticipation, low-cost carrier (LCC) Allegiant Air (G4) has officially received its first Boeing 737 MAX, marking a significant milestone for the airline, which has operated an all-Airbus fleet since 2018.

The aircraft, registered as "N811NV," took its inaugural flight from Seattle, Washington, to Mesa, Arizona.

This delivery is part of a US$5 billion order from G4 in January 2022 for 50 Boeing 737 MAX aircraft, evenly split between the 737-7 and the larger 737-8-200. G4 initially anticipated receiving 34 aircraft by the end of 2024, but production and delivery delays reduced this figure to just four by then.

Two and a half years ago, Boeing and G4 partnered on "entry-into-service support," enabling a smooth transition as the carrier adds the 737 into its operation. G4 is also set to "utilize a suite of Boeing Global Services digital tools" to further enhance operational efficiency. Until today, G4 operated a fleet of Airbus A319 and A320 airplanes.

Allegiant is optimistic about the new addition. A company representative highlighted the new model's fuel efficiency, operational reliability, and enhanced passenger experience. The airline expects to have the aircraft ready for service in the coming weeks.

Before 2018, G4 operated Boeing 757-200s, primarily used for Hawaii routes. However, the airline retired the fleet due to high maintenance costs and ceased operations in the Aloha State.

The new Boeing 7378-200 will feature 190 seats, 21 of which are designated as "Allegiant Extra," offering passengers additional legroom. This marks a new chapter for the LCC as it diversifies its fleet with Boeing aircraft after a long hiatus without operating Boeing aircraft.

Allegiant is the first U.S. airline to take delivery of the higher-capacity version of the Boeing 737-8.