The Royal Australian Air Force’s (RAAF) first Boeing 737 MAX 8 Boeing Business Jet (BBJ) arrived in Canberra on 12 July for the first time. This aircraft – one of two being acquired to replace ageing 737-700 BBJ derived Special Purpose Aircraft (SPA) – will be operated by No. 34 Squadron out of Defence Establishment Fairbairn in Canberra.
The decision to replace the RAAF’s existing 737-700 BBJs was made in December 2021 when then-Prime Minister Scott Morrison approved a proposal to lease two 737 Max 8 BBJs, according to documents obtained under Freedom of Information laws.
Initially, the lease was expected to cost $372 million over 12 years. However, the rising cost of leasing the aircraft, which increased to more than $500 million, led to an outright purchase of both aircraft for $450 million.
Northrop Grumman Australia, which sustains the rest of the SPA fleet including three Dassault Falcon 7Xs, one modified KC-30A, and the two legacy 737-700 BBJs, will also sustain both 737 Max 8 BBJs under its existing contract.
The new aircraft can carry six more people – 32 compared to 26 – than the two legacy 737-700 BBJs. Compared to the two legacy 737-700 BBJs, the new aircraft can also fly further and require fewer refuelling stops along the way.
They also have better amenities for crew and passengers alike, including a dedicated crew rest area and lie-flat seating for passengers. Their internal campaign pressure can also be set to a lower altitude compared to the 737-700 BBJs.
Ahead of its arrival in Canberra the first 737 Max 8 BBJ, A62-001, underwent modification work in Germany and the United States. Its sister aircraft, A62-002, is expected to arrive in Australia between September and October this year following the completion of its own modification package.
The lease on the existing 737-700 BBJs will expire at the end of the 2024 calendar year.