China's Hainan Airlines Gets 15 Next-Gen 737s

In yet another indication of a hot Asian aviation sales market, China Aviation Supplies Import and Export Group completed its 150-airplane deal with Boeing yesterday.

Boeing announced Wednesday it will supply Hainan Airlines with 15 Next-Generation 737 airliners.

"It is gratifying to partner with Chinese airlines in their quest to achieve profitability and to provide their passengers with reliable, comfortable service," said Rob Laird, vice president, China Sales - Boeing Commercial Airplanes. "The 737, especially the Next-Generation 737, has played an integral role in Chinese aviation."

Air China, China Eastern Airlines, China Southern Airlines, Shandong Airlines, Shanghai Airlines, Shenzhen Airlines and Xiamen Airlines places orders earlier this year for 65 Boeing Next-Generation 737s. They, as well as Hainan Airlines, are all supplied thru the Chinese Government's procurement arm, the China Aviation Supplies Import and Export Group

According Boeing's news release, the Group announced its intention to order 150 aircraft in August of last year, with the first sales actually booked in December. With the final 15 aircraft now officially booked, Boeing completes a deal valued at $10 Billion based on average list prices.

Boeing expects to deliver the aircraft between now and 2010.

FMI: www.boeing.com