Also Earns Six-Plane 777 Freighter Order From GECAS

While the order perhaps doesn't carry the gravitas of rival Airbus' strong first-day showing at the Paris Air Show, Boeing was still proud to note a new order for the longest-legged variant of the American planemaker's erstwhile 737.

Boeing and Jakarta-based Lion Air announced the additional order of 40 737-900ERs at Le Bourget, bringing Lion Air's total orders for the aircraft type to 100.

"We are thrilled that Lion Air has chosen the Next-Generation 737 to play a key role in its plans for growth and market leadership," said Boeing Commercial Airplanes President and CEO Scott Carson. "Lion Air's selection of the 737 to support its strategic expansion and fleet modernization validates the superior economics and value the 737s offers to airlines. It is the most efficient single-aisle airplane operating in today's market."

"Today's announcement is a great achievement for Lion Air as we are the world's largest operator of the 737-900ER," added Lion Air founder and President Director Rusdi Kirana. "The 737 is the right plane to support our growing route structure throughout Southeast Asia."

Boeing launched the 737-900ER program in July 2005 when Lion Air announced the initial order for 30 of the newest 737 model. In July 2006, the airline announced an additional order for 30 737-900ERs.

As of May 31, eight customers have placed orders for 169 Next-Generation 737-900ERs. Boeing notes the 737 is the best-selling commercial jetliner in history, with more than 7,000 orders to more than 240 customers around the world.

GECAS Orders More 777 Freighters

Boeing also announced Monday an order for six 777 Freighters from GE Commercial Aviation Services (GECAS). The announcement increases the number of 777s GECAS has ordered directly from Boeing to 39, which includes 14 777 Freighters.

To date, GECAS has taken delivery of 15 777s. The agreement allows GECAS the right to substitute other 777 passenger models, if necessary, in the future.

"We are very pleased to have finalized this order for six additional 777 aircraft," said Henry Hubschman, president and CEO of GECAS. "The 777 has proven itself to be a strong performer in the passenger market, and we believe this will also apply in the cargo segment."

FMI: www.boeing.com