Over 7,000 737s Sold Throughout Aircraft's History

Following the clamor of new airliner orders during the recent 2007 Paris Air Show -- especially for European planemaker Airbus -- things have been fairly quiet from both of the world's largest planemakers. This week, however, Boeing reported it is still very much in the game... with two new orders announced for its erstwhile 737 family.

The American planemaker reports new orders from AeroSvit-Ukrainian Airlines, and as Canadian low-cost carrier WestJet.

AeroSvit is ordering up to 14 737-800 airplanes. The Kiev-based carrier signed an order for seven 737s valued at $523 million at list prices, and secured purchase rights for another seven. The order was recently included on the Boeing Commercial Airplanes Orders and Deliveries Web site, attributed to an unidentified customer.

AeroSvit will equip the airplanes with Blended Winglets. This order marks AeroSvit's first direct purchase from Boeing since the carrier was founded in 1994. All-Boeing operator AeroSvit will gradually replace its fleet of 13 737 Classic airplanes with the Next-Generation 737s.

"This order is significant for Ukrainian aviation. It demonstrates dedicated execution of our replacement strategy and is an indicator of Ukraine's current economic development and progress as an important player in international business and tourism," said Aron Mayberg, director general of AeroSvit. "Boeing demonstrated in-depth knowledge of our business and, with the Next-Generation 737, presented a compelling solution to our future needs. We look forward to continuing our excellent cooperation."

Also on Thursday, Boeing confirmed reports that WestJet ordered 20 Next-Generation 737s to add to the airline's all-737 fleet. The order is for 737-700s, with conversion rights to 737-800s if desired.

WestJet, based in Calgary, Alberta, was one of the most profitable airlines in North America in 2006. It has consistently recorded over 15 percent annual growth as it expanded its routes across North America and the Caribbean. Founded in 1996, the airline currently operates 67 Next-Generation 737s. With the latest order, WestJet's fleet will grow to 108 leased or purchased Next-Generation 737s. Forty-one remain to be delivered.

Boeing notes the 737 is the most successful commercial airplane family in history, with more than 7,000 orders. Boeing has more than 1,500 unfilled orders for the Next Generation 737 worth over $100 billion.

FMI: www.boeing.com, www.westjet.com, www.aerosvit.ua/eng