Flynas, the Saudi low-cost domestic-focused carrier ( 65-70% flights are domestic), is mulling an initial order of 60 aircraft, which can be extended further to 100, to meet the company’s expansion, while replacing its existing fleet, according to CEO, Paul Byrne, as quoted by Reuters on the sidelines of an event in Dubai. The company is currently choosing between Boeing 737 MAX or Airbus 320NEO and plans on finalising the decision before Ramadan, having previously dismissed Bombardier as an option. Selecting Boeing would require a “phenomenal deal” in order to transition Flynas’ out of its Airbus troubles (currently leases Airbus A320s) including staff retraining. On another note, the company’s CEO expects Flynas to close the year with profits, after witnessing its first profitable year in 2015; however, he noted that there could be an impact from competing carriers increasing capacity with more to come as Saudi Airlines (Saudia) launches its low-cost carrier in mid-2017. Fares are capped by the Saudi government, which adds to pressure on the company, but are expected to ease gradually over the next five years, especially given that Saudia is subsidised by the government. (Reuters)