Alaska Airlines will buy 23 more 737-9 airplanes from Boeing, building on its original order and an agreement last month to acquire new 737-9s through lease. The new deal brings Alaska Airlines’ total 737 MAX orders and options to 120 airplanes.

“We are extremely proud to be announcing this transformative agreement with Boeing,” Brad Tilden, CEO of Alaska Air Group, said. “We believe in this airplane, we believe in our strong partnership with Boeing and we believe in the future of Alaska Airlines and the incredible opportunities ahead as we climb our way out of this pandemic.”

Alaska Airlines placed an order for 32 737-9 jets in 2012 as part of its fleet modernization program. The 737-9 is a member of the 737 MAX family. Last month, Alaska Airlines expanded its commitment to the 737 MAX program by leasing 13 new 737-9s while selling some A320 jets it had taken on through its acquisition of Virgin America.

The new agreement will add 23 firm orders for the 737-9 and more options for future purchases. In all, Alaska will have 52 options, which, if fully exercised, would take the carrier to as many as 120 737 MAX airplanes.

“We could not ask for a better partner than Boeing and we are delighted to be standing side by side with them as we work together to get our economy back on its feet,” Tilden said.

Alaska Airlines and Boeing announced the agreement during a signing ceremony at Boeing’s delivery facility in Seattle. In observance of COVID-19 restrictions, both companies limited attendance at the event and addressed the pandemic, which has severely affected air travel, expressing confidence in the fundamental strength of the industry and long-term passenger demand.

“Alaska Airlines has done a tremendous job of weathering the impacts from the COVID-19 pandemic and is well positioned to return to its growth trajectory and strengthen its standing as one of the top U.S. airlines. With Alaska’s industry-leading reputation for safety, sustainability and customer service, we are honored they have chosen to invest in their future with a significant purchase of additional Boeing 737 airplanes,” Stan Deal, president and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes, said. “We are grateful for Alaska’s trust and partnership. Our team is focused on delivering their first 737 MAX jets and helping ensure a safe and seamless entry into service.”

Alaska Airlines said the 737s will use 20% less fuel and reduce emissions by 20% per seat compared with the airplanes they replace. The airline will configure the jets with 178 seats in a three-class configuration. The planes can fly 3,550 nautical miles, which is about 600 miles more than their predecessors.