PARIS–Air Algérie has followed up an order for seven widebody Airbus aircraft with a deal for eight narrowbodies from Boeing.

The Algerian flag carrier has placed an order for eight 737 MAX 9s at the Paris Air Show, as well as signing a memorandum of understanding for two 737-800 Boeing converted freighters to meet increasing cargo demand in the region.

The latest agreement comes less than three weeks after Air Algerie signed a firm order for five A330-900neos and two A350-1000s to further grow its transcontinental network.

Speaking to ATW on June 20, Air Algérie CEO Yacine Benslimane said: “We’re really looking to expand our network within Africa and beyond—this is really only the beginning. We’re launching a hub in Algiers and the focus [for the MAX jets] will be southern Africa, French-speaking countries within Africa, and the whole of Europe.”

Air Algérie operates a fleet that includes 31 737-600s, -700s and 800s. The airline also has eight A330s in service alongside 14 ATR 72-500s and -600s. It expects to receive its first 193-seat 737 MAX 9s in 2027.

“The 737 MAX 9 is ideally suited for Air Algérie's regional network, providing it with additional capacity and flexibility to operate seamlessly with its existing 737 fleet,” said Stan Deal, president and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes.

“In addition, the highly reliable and capable 737-800 Boeing converted freighters will enable Air Algérie to capture growing cargo opportunities, expanding beyond its passenger business.”

Benslimane said that “all options are on the table” in terms of further widebody expansion with both Airbus and Boeing.