Will Join Existing Fleet Of 116 Of The Aircraft In Alaska

Boeing and Alaska Airlines announced Thursday that the carrier has exercised options for two additional Next-Generation 737-800s.

Valued at approximately $153 million at list prices, the Alaska order was posted to Boeing's Orders and Deliveries website in June and attributed to an unidentified customer.

"Alaska Airlines continues to execute a successful and strategic vision based on its expansive fleet of efficient and reliable Next-Generation 737s," said Marlin Dailey, vice president of Sales for Boeing Commercial Airplanes.

"Through its close partnership with Boeing, and working with the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration, Alaska Airlines is also expanding the use of advanced navigational and flight guidance procedures that leverage the superior performance capabilities of the Next-Generation 737. These procedures reduce flight times and congestion and result in lower fuel consumption and emissions into the environment," Dailey said.

"Our financial performance has been strong, and expanding our fleet with these two new 737-800s will not only help us fly more efficiently but also launch new service for our customers, provide positive returns for investors and ultimately, bring some of our furloughed employees back to work," said Alaska Airlines' President Brad Tilden.

Including Thursday's order, Alaska will take delivery of 13 Next-Generation 737s over the next several years. Alaska Airlines has 116 737s in its fleet, including 55 737-800s.

FMI: www.boeing.com, www.alaskaair.com