On an exciting day for African aviation, Boeing and Lagos-based Green Africa Airways have announced a commitment for up to 100 737 MAX 8 aircraft.

The deal is evenly split into 50 firm aircraft and 50 options, as the airline gears up to begin commercial operations.

The total deal carries a list-price of $11.7 billion, the largest aircraft agreement from Africa.

“Today is a historic day for the Nigerian and African aviation industry,” said Babawande Afolabi, founder, Green Africa Airways.

“This landmark deal takes us much closer to our long-held dream of building a world-class airline that will unlock a new realm of positive possibilities for millions of customers.

“Broadly speaking, this deal is a bold symbol of the dynamism, resilience and soaring entrepreneurial drive of the next generation of Nigerians and Africans.”

Green Africa Airways, a value airline based in Lagos, Nigeria aims to offer safe, quality and affordable air travel and be a significant contributor to the economic development of Nigeria and the African continent.

The new airline has received its air transport license from the Nigerian government and is anchored by a group of senior industry leaders led by Tom Horton, former chairman and chief executive of American Airlines.

The airline initially plans to develop the Nigerian market and then build a strong pan-African network.

“The growth potential for air travel across Nigeria and Africa is extraordinary with the airplane fleet expected to more than double over the next 20 years.

“We are delighted that Green Africa Airways has selected the 737 MAX to serve this expanding market,” said Ihssane Mounir, senior vice president of commercial sales and marketing, Boeing.

“We look forward to Green Africa Airways building their fleet with the MAX and taking advantage of the jet’s efficiency and dependability to open new options across Nigeria and the African continent.”