Kunming, China-based, Ruili Airlines announced at last month’s Paris Air Show that the airline has committed to purchase 30 B737 MAXs with the financial support of AVIC International Leasing. The commitment, valued at US$3.2 billion at current list prices, will be subject to the approval of the Chinese government.

“Today’s agreement demonstrates our ambition to grow from a start-up airline to a driving force in China’s growing aviation industry,” said Ma Zhanwei, president of Ruili Airlines. “With the competitive advantages offered by the 737 MAX, and the solid partnership with Boeing as well as aircraft leasing giants, we feel very confident in our ability to fulfill continuous growth.”

Currently, Ruili Airlines operates 34 daily flights on 11 scheduled routes with a fleet of five B737 aircraft. According to its development plan, the start-up carrier will expand its fleet to seven aircraft by the end of this year and 26 by 2020.