Boeing has announced a deal with Shandong Airlines which will see the carrier commit to the purchase of 50 Boeing 737s, including 16 Next-Generation 737s and 34 737 MAXs.

The airline plans to expand its capacity to meet growing demand in China and north-east Asia, one of the most dynamic markets for commercial airplanes.

The order will be posted as such to the Boeing Orders & Deliveries website once all contingencies are cleared.

“Our enduring partnership with Shandong Airlines goes back to the carrier’s beginning and we are proud the 737 has been part of their success,” said Ihssane Mounir, vice president of sales and marketing for north-east Asia, Boeing Commercial Airplanes.

“We are pleased to see the Next-Generation 737 and 737 MAX continue to support Shandong Airlines’ growth.”

Shandong Airlines is expected to secure significant discounts from the $4.6 billion list price for the aircraft.

When confirmed the deal could prove to be a significant coup for Boeing, which is competing with the Airbus A320 in the rapidly growing 100-200 seat narrow-body, or single-aisle, aircraft market.

Chinese manufacturer Comac is also a growing presence in the market as it tries to boost sales of its C919.