Boeing 737-800 NG Enhances Air Inuit Fleet, Launching Essential Deliveries to Nunavik

Wednesday, July 17, 2024

Air Inuit announced today that the first of three Boeing Next-Generation 737-800s, acquired in 2023, has entered into service. The aircraft made its inaugural delivery of essential freight to Kuujjuaq Airport, which will be distributed to communities across Nunavik.

The B737-800 has been specially configured as a freighter aircraft with a main deck cargo door and will primarily operate between Montreal and Air Inuit’s cargo hubs in Kuujjuaq and La Grande. This newly added aircraft boasts a capacity of 23,000 kilograms.

As part of its ongoing fleet modernization program, Air Inuit plans to phase out its B737-200s, replacing them with three B737-800 NG aircraft. This upgrade aims to enhance passenger experience, ensure reliable freight delivery, and reduce fuel emissions by nearly 40 percent.

“By equipping these aircraft with customized features based on Air Inuit’s unique requirements and knowhow, we are ensuring the perennity of our fleet as we fulfill our mission as an essential service,” said Christian Busch, president and CEO of Air Inuit.

“Air Inuit serves as a critical infrastructure for the people of Nunavik, and today is a powerful demonstration of how we are continuously improving the quality of our service in ways that meet customer needs while acting as a responsible company when it comes to environmental considerations,” said Executive Chairman, Noah Tayara.

The two additional B737-800 NG aircraft will feature an innovative combi configuration, pioneered by Air Inuit, to offer comfortable passenger service and reliable freight delivery simultaneously. Both aircraft are scheduled to enter service in 2025.

“Seeing the first of three Boeing Next-Generation 737-800s begin operating is a moment of pride on behalf of the Inuit of Nunavik, and a reminder of our never-ending goal to always seek new ways to improve while also doing our part to reduce our ecological footprint,” said Pita Aatami, President of Makivvik.