Orders 10 Boeing 7E7s, Accelerates Leases for Next-Generation
737s, Adds 757s to Fleet
Boeing and Continental
Airlines have just announced major steps in support of the
airline's growth, including its plans to purchase ten 7E7
Dreamliner airplanes. The companies signed an agreement calling for
delivery of the 7E7-8s beginning in 2009. The 7E7 order is valued
at approximately US$1.3 billion at list prices. Boeing and
Continental expect to formally complete the agreement early in
2005.
Continental is the first major U.S. carrier to announce plans to
acquire the technologically advanced and highly efficient airplane
slated to enter service in 2008.
"The 7E7 is simply a
game changer," said Gordon Bethune, Continental Airline's chairman
and chief executive officer. "It will position Continental for
significant international growth from our New York and Houston hubs
over the next decade."
This agreement increases to 122 the number of customer-announced
7E7 orders since the program's launch in April of this year. Firm
contracts are in place for 56 airplanes and negotiations continue
with additional launch team customers worldwide.
"Continental is a bellwether addition to the 7E7 Launch Team,"
said Mike Bair, Boeing vice president and general manager of the
7E7 program. "Continental understands the superior operating
economics, faster turnaround times and lower maintenance costs of
Boeing airplanes."
The other 7E7 Launch Team members are ANA, Air New Zealand ,
Europe 's Blue Panorama and First Choice, Primaris of the U.S. and
Japan Airlines. " This order plus the previously announced orders
demonstrate the Dreamliner's unprecedented appeal for a wide range
of airlines with distinct business models," said Bair.
Under the terms of the agreement Continental also will lease
eight Boeing 757-300s starting in 2005, and will accelerate the
delivery of six Boeing 737-800s into 2006. The 757s will be
delivered beginning in July.
"The 7E7 is the widebody of the future for Continental, and will
provide the platform for our long-term international growth," said
Larry Kellner, Continental's president and COO. "Leasing these
additional 757 and 737 aircraft will be another step in
outdistancing our competitors in this rapidly changing
environment."
With the 7E7 Dreamliner, Boeing claims to continue its
leadership and innovation with a largely composite airplane that
burns 20 percent less fuel, provides airlines with up to 60 percent
more cargo revenue capacity and offers passengers a better flying
experience. The 7E7 sets the standard for interior passenger
comfort, allowing higher cabin humidity, lower atmospheric
pressurization, wider seats and aisles, larger windows and
unmatched stowage capacity.