EVERETT, Wash., June 22, 1999 -- Air Madagascar, the national carrier of the Republic of Madagascar, took delivery today of its first customized Boeing 767-300ER (extended range) from GE Capital Aviation Services and The Boeing Company. Attending the delivery event were Nirina Andriamanerasoa, chairman of the board - Air Madagascar, and Fred Mitchell, Boeing Commercial Airplanes Group executive vice president - Airplane Components, Procurement and Operations.
"We have been improving our operations over the last few years and are in a strong market position to grow quickly," Andriamanerasoa said. "This new Boeing 767 will help us do that by enhancing our profitability through increased operating efficiency and reliability, while pleasing our customers with its comfortable and versatile interior."
Air Madagascar has operated one 767-300ER since last year. The airline's new 767-300ER is specially customized and equipped with an in-seat, inflight entertainment (IFE) system in first and business classes. This is the first in-seat IFE system to be installed and certified during production of a 767. "Although our passengers have been very satisfied flying in the 767 now in our fleet, the new airplane will offer more than just comfort, but the ultimate luxury in flying," Andriamanerasoa said.
Air Madagascar configured its initial 767-300ER to carry 228 passengers - eight in first class, 22 in business class and the remainder in economy. The airline will fly its new 767-300ER on routes that connect Antananarivo, Madagascar to Paris; Rome; Munich, Germany; Johannesburg, South Africa and Singapore.
Since its launch in 1978, investors and financiers have rated the Boeing 767 as one of the world's most valued airplanes in terms of reliability, lower operating costs and multiple market flexibility. To date, 872 767s have been ordered by customers worldwide.
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