SEATTLE, Feb. 22, 2005 -- Boeing Delivers First Air-India Express Next-Generation 737-800
Boeing [NYSE: BA] and Air-India Express today celebrated delivery of the airline's first Boeing Next-Generation 737-800 commercial jetliner.
Air-India Express (AIE), a wholly-owned subsidiary of India's flag carrier Air-India, is leasing the airplane from Boullioun Aviation Services Inc. Air-India Express, a low-cost operator will initially fly from the southern Indian State of Kerala and the cities of Mumbai and Delhi to destinations in the Gulf from April 2005 and gradually expand services as more airplanes are inducted in the Air-India Express fleet.
"This is the first of three Boeing 737-800s being taken on lease by Air-India Charters Ltd. (AICL) for Air-India Express," said Jitender Bhargava, director of Public Relations, Air-India. "These 737-800s will provide excellent reliability and efficiency, which will enable a profitable operation as quickly as possible."
"We are thrilled to partner with Air-India Express in the introduction of a new era of airline service to India," said Dinesh Keskar, vice president -- Sales and president -- Boeing Aircraft Trading, Boeing Commercial Airplanes. "The 737-800's economic advantages are the result of its ability to generate more revenue by carrying up to 12 more passengers and approximately one-half tonne more cargo than the A320. The Next-Generation 737 is the right choice for Air-India Express."
The 737 is the best-selling airplane in commercial aviation history. Its industry-leading reliability rate, fuel efficient performance, and quick turn-around time make it ideal for airlines around the world.
At the end of January 2005, Boeing had won orders for 1,221 737-800s and had delivered 829 of those to 53 operators. The airplane is known for its reliability, fuel efficiency and economical performance, and has been selected by leading carriers throughout the world.
"The low-cost sector continues to provide a dramatic bright spot for the overall airline industry, especially in Asia where forward-looking carriers, such as Air-India, are identifying and capitalizing on new opportunities and introducing new low-cost subsidiaries," said Boullioun President and CEO Robert J. Genise.
Today, of the top 20 low-cost carriers, 15 operate only 737s, three operate A320s, and two operate both models. The Next-Generation 737's superior performance is proven. The 737-800, which is 1,500 pounds lighter, can fly 260 nautical miles farther, 1,100 feet higher and climb to 35,000 feet 3.2 minutes faster while carrying more passengers than the A320. This result is greater efficiency and cost savings for the operator.
737 Program Communications
Boeing Commercial Airplanes
425-965-9380
sandra.l.angers@boeing.com