Exciting news in the world of aviation as Dominican Republic's Arajet, a prominent low-cost airline, has recently secured a game-changing deal with Dublin-based SMBC Aviation Capital for the acquisition of five Boeing 737 MAX 8 jets. The agreement, announced on April 24, 2025, is set to see the delivery of the aircraft between 2026 and 2027. This partnership marks a significant milestone for both Arajet and SMBC, showcasing the commitment to support Arajet's growth and expansion plans.

Víctor Pacheco Méndez, the CEO of Arajet, expressed his enthusiasm about the collaboration, stating that the airline, established in 2022, is thrilled to be working with SMBC and to enhance its fleet with the new 737-8s. Méndez emphasized that the agreement aligns with Arajet's mission of delivering safe, efficient, and affordable travel options throughout the Americas. The CEO praised the trust and collaboration exhibited by SMBC, highlighting the shared dedication to innovation and sustainable growth in the aviation industry.

Conor Stafford, Head of Airline Marketing at SMBC, echoed Méndez's sentiments, expressing his delight at finalizing this significant deal with Arajet and welcoming the airline as a valued customer. Stafford emphasized the confidence in the aircraft contributing to Arajet's success and emphasized SMBC's commitment to providing tailored leasing solutions that cater to the evolving needs of clients.

In another exciting development, on April 14, 2025, Arajet launched its inaugural flight to the US, with a Boeing 737 MAX 8 traveling from Las Américas International Airport (SDQ) in Santo Domingo to Miami International Airport (MIA). This new service was made possible following the Open Skies agreement signed between the US and the Dominican Republic in December 2024. Initially operating four times a week, the Miami service is planned to increase to a daily frequency by June 2025.

According to ch-aviation, Arajet currently operates 10 Boeing 737-8 aircraft, with an additional 17 units of the same model slated for delivery, showcasing the airline's commitment to growth and service expansion. Stay tuned for more updates on these exciting developments shaping the aviation landscape!