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.