Says Environmental Impact Factor In Purchase
Boeing and Air New Zealand signed a definitive agreement Friday
for the purchase of four Boeing 777-300ER (Extended Range)
jetliners and options for three additional 777-300ERs, as the
carrier continues its push toward operating a fuel-efficient fleet
of airliners.
The signing and announcement event was attended by Air New
Zealand CEO Rob Fyfe and Boeing Commercial Airplanes Vice President
- Asia Pacific Sales Stan Deal. The ceremony took place at Air New
Zealand's Auckland headquarters. The four new airplanes have an
estimated value of $1.1 billion at Boeing list prices and are
powered by General Electric GE90-115BL engines, the world's largest
and most powerful commercial jet engine.
"These new -300ERs will help us build on the success we've had
with our existing 777s," said Fyfe. "There's no doubting the 777's
passenger appeal, and its fuel efficiency is a very good fit with
our very strong commitment to the environment.
"Tourists come to New Zealand to enjoy our unspoiled
environment, so it's critically important that we bring them here
in the most fuel efficient aircraft," he said.
Boeing notes the twin-engine 777-300ER reduces fuel consumption
by more than 20 percent per seat compared to its closest
competitor, the four-engine Airbus A340 -- therefore reducing CO2
emissions by more than 20 percent.
Since entering into service in 2004, the overall fuel efficiency
of the 777-300ER has been improved by 3.6 percent through a
combination of improved fuel burn in service and enhancements to
the airplane. In addition, the range of the 777-300ER has increased
by 630 nautical miles (1200 km) since entry into service.
"Air New Zealand is known for its customer focus and provides an
outstanding passenger experience, particularly with its 777-200ER
fleet," said Deal. "Air New Zealand was one of the first to
recognize the economic benefits of 777/787 mixed-fleet operations
and we believe that by giving passengers what they want - nonstop
flights in modern planes - Air New Zealand is well positioned for
continued success."
Air New Zealand will use the new 777s to replace its
747-400s.
Air New Zealand was the first airline in the South Pacific
region to become a 777 customer, with a 777-200ER delivery in
December 2005. Air New Zealand currently operates an all-Boeing
twin-aisle fleet of eight 777-200ERs, eight 747-400s and five
767-300ERs. Air New Zealand has also ordered eight 787-9
Dreamliners with options for a further eight.