ANA Inspects Boeing Aircraft in Washington

All Nippon Airways (ANA) is inspecting its new Boeing 737-8 aircraft directly at Boeing’s plant in Renton, Washington. These inspections are part of a process to ensure the planes meet ANA’s standards before delivery.

Delivery Date Set for December 2026

ANA now expects deliveries of the first 737-8 to begin in December 2026. This date marks the start of a fleet renewal focused on short- and medium-haul routes, with ANA having committed to 38 firm aircraft and four options.

ANA’s Oversight of Manufacturing

ANA has sent its own specialists to Boeing’s plant to monitor the manufacturing of the 737 MAX 8 aircraft. These experts check that the planes meet contractual requirements at various stages of assembly and during ground and flight tests.

Delays in Delivery Schedule

The December 2026 delivery date comes after several postponements. ANA initially planned to receive the first planes between 2021 and 2025, but delays were caused by Boeing’s production challenges and quality issues after the global grounding of the 737 MAX in 2019.

Expanded Order for 737-8 Aircraft

ANA’s order has grown beyond the original 20 aircraft. In February 2025, the airline exercised ten options and added eight more 737-8 planes, bringing the total to 38 firm aircraft and four additional options.

Modernizing Domestic Fleet

The new Boeing 737-8 aircraft are intended to replace older Boeing 737-800 models on ANA’s domestic routes. This update is part of a larger modernization plan that includes new Airbus A321neo and Embraer E190-E2 aircraft for different domestic needs.