Red Sea Airlines Expands Fleet With Two Boeing 737-8s

Red Sea Airlines has signed an agreement with SMBC Aviation Capital to lease two new Boeing 737-8s, with deliveries scheduled for July and August 2027, as the Egyptian carrier continues to build out its fleet.

The deal marks the latest step in a broader expansion program. Red Sea Airlines is also due to take delivery of a Boeing 737-800NG from Aergo Capital by the end of 2026 and is in talks with several international lessors about seven further aircraft. Together, the moves support the carrier’s goal of operating a 14-aircraft fleet by 2028, which it says will give it the “capacity and flexibility” to grow its network and strengthen its position in key markets.

The larger fleet is intended to boost connectivity to major Egyptian destinations including Sharm El Sheikh, Hurghada and Sphinx, while improving access to the Red Sea coast.

Ahmed Shanan, CEO of Red Sea Airlines, described the agreement as more than a simple fleet expansion. “It is a defining step toward the future of Red Sea Airlines,” he said, adding that the airline is aiming to become “a stronger and more connected” carrier in support of Egypt’s tourism sector, while maintaining its focus on safety and customer service.

Red Sea’s current in-service fleet comprises four leased 737-800s, according to Aviation Week’s Fleet Discovery database.

Alongside the fleet growth, the airline says it is continuing to invest in training, maintenance, technology and network development to underpin its expansion.

Founded in 2021, Red Sea Airlines began operations in September 2022 and has focused primarily on seasonal charter flights linking Egyptian resort areas with destinations across Europe and Central Asia.

The Russian leisure market remains a significant focus. According to the CAPA – Centre for Aviation Fleet database, Russian carriers are operating 36 weekly flights to Egypt’s Red Sea resorts the week of Sept. 14–20.

Moscow Vnukovo Airport is the leading source airport, with six weekly frequencies to Sharm El Sheikh and four to Hurghada, while Yekaterinburg, St. Petersburg and Krasnodar each run two weekly services. In total, the network offers 6,552 seats across both directions, with economy class accounting for the vast majority.