Budget carrier Jet2 has signed an order with Boeing for 27 737-800 aircraft worth about $2.6 billion at list price.

The deal marks the carrier’s first direct order with Boeing, says the airframer in a statement.

"Today's order for 27 additional 737-800NGs will be delivered over the next two years and will provide Jet2.com with the necessary cost effective, reliable and comfortable environment to allow us to build upon our already highly successful family friendly business,” says Jet2 executive chairman Philip Meeson.

“We are extremely pleased to have finalized this order for more of what has already proven to be a popular aircraft within our fleet.''

Jet2 says that the new 737s will be used to address anticipated growth of its leisure travel business and for fleet replacement. Deliveries of the 27 aircraft will take place between September 2016 and April 2018.

Flightglobal’s Ascend Fleets database shows Jet2 operates 59 aircraft. Its fleet includes 46 737s, 12 757-200s, and a single Airbus A320.

Source: Cirium Dashboard