Qantas has sold 44 Boeing 737 Next Generation aircraft to aftermarket specialist AerFin as part of plans to retire its workhorse fleet. AerFin confirmed on November 4, 2026 that the landmark acquisition includes 88 CFM International CFM56-7B engines, and said it is the largest transaction in the company's history. The entire transfer is expected to spread over seven years, with the first aircraft expected to leave Qantas later this year.
Qantas Domestic chief executive Markus Svensson said the airline's 737s will continue to fly "for many years, alongside our growing fleet of next generation aircraft". He said the agreement lets Qantas plan for the retirement of the majority of its 737 fleet while keeping flexibility to adjust the timing as new aircraft arrive, and that the airline expects to take delivery of up to 24 new aircraft this year. Qantas has so far received seven Airbus A321XLRs and is awaiting delivery of 41 more, according to ch-aviation data, and the A321XLRs are set to replace the Boeing 737s.
UK-based AerFin said the retired aircraft will be used to support airlines and MRO customers globally, providing access to aircraft material and tailored aftermarket solutions. "Transactions of this size require deep technical expertise, strong financial capability and trusted partnerships," AerFin chief executive Simon Goodson said.