Boeing's 737 MAX tops 1,000 orders with $6B deal

The Boeing Co.'s updated 737 MAX jet has won more than 1,000 orders thanks to a deal reached in late 2012, the company announced Wednesday.

An order for 60 aircraft from leasing company Aviation Capital Group pushed the re-engined 737 MAX program over the 1,000 order milestone. The deal for 50 737 MAX 8s and 10 737 MAX 9s, was finalized in December 2012. The order is valued at $6 billion at list prices.

"Reaching 1,000 orders in just over a year's time from our first order validates the exceptional value the 737 MAX offers our customers," Bob Feldmann, general manager of the 737 MAX program, said in a statement.

Boeing says its 737 MAX will save airlines 8 percent in operating costs compared to the closest competitor. The jet maker's rival Airbus launched its A320 new engine option, or A320neo, jet in late 2010. That aircraft won 1,000 orders in 2011. Boeing began offering its 737 MAX to customers in August 2011.

"Customers are expressing confidence in our ability to deliver improved performance on schedule," Feldmann said.

With the order from Aviation Capital Group, Boeing's 737 MAX has orders for 1,029 airplanes.