SEATTLE, July 19, 1996 - Air China, the flag carrier of the People's Republic of China, has ordered three 747- 400s, valued at approximately US$510 million, Boeing Commercial Airplane Group today confirmed.

"We are honored by Air China's strong vote of confidence in Boeing airplanes. These 747-400s will contribute to Air China's growth and future success," said Larry Dickenson, vice president for International Sales, Asia/Pacific, Boeing Commercial Airplane Group.

"China and Boeing this year celebrate 25 years of working together. We are committed to continuing our strong relationship with Air China and China's aviation leaders," he added.

Air China plans to use the 747-400s on routes to the United States, Europe and Asia. The airline currently operates 18 737s, 16 747s and 10 767s. This order brings the number of Boeing airplanes operated by Air China to 47.

Boeing has for many years provided support in virtually every area of China's aviation industry, including air traffic control and regulatory development, flight and maintenance crew training, a spares center at Beijing Capital Airport and on-the-job training for China's airline personnel.

China has taken delivery of more than 250 Boeing airplanes. This currently represents more than 70 percent of the market for Western-built jet aircraft.