Air China confirms Order for 15 Boeing 777s and 30 737s

Air China, the flag carrier of the People's Republic of China, has signed an order with Boeing for 15 777-300ERs (Extended Range) and 30 Next-Generation 737-800 jetliners.

"These airplanes are the most fuel efficient in their classes," said Kong Dong, Chairman of Air China Limited. "The 777-300ER will be the backbone of our long-haul international fleet and the new 737-800 will support our hub build-up and our company's domestic strategy."

Air China operates international and domestic scheduled passenger and cargo services and will use the airplanes to expand its international and domestic routes. The carrier is based in Beijing, the home of the 2008 Olympic Games, and is the only Chinese airline selected as a 2008 Beijing Olympics partner. The airline is one of the latest air carriers to become a full member of Star Alliance.

"Our long-standing and productive partnership with Air China goes back to the airline's beginning and we're proud to be part of their success," said Rob Laird, vice president, China & East Asia Sales, Boeing Commercial Airplanes. "Air China's expansion and renewal program demonstrates their commitment to improving fuel efficiency and reducing environmental impact, a commitment that Boeing shares."

The order, worth approximately $6.3 billion at average list prices, was previously posted to the Boeing Orders and Deliveries website attributed to an unidentified customer.

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