Japan Transocean Air Finalizes Order for 12 Boeing 737-800s

Japan Transocean Air (JTA) has finalized an order for 12 Next-Generation Boeing 737-800 airplanes. The arrival of the new 737-800s in 2016 will mark the start of the airline's fleet renewal program.

"This order is a key part of our strategy to bring the highest levels of comfort, amenity and convenience to the people of Okinawa, by continuing to operate the most reliable and fuel-efficient aircraft available today and in the future," said Manabu Sato, president of Japan Transocean Air and executive officer at Japan Airlines.

The order, first announced as a commitment on 27 March, is valued at $1.1 billion at list prices. As part of the agreement, JTA will also have the flexibility to switch to the 737 MAX family of airplanes.

Based in Okinawa, Japan's southernmost major island chain, Japan Airlines Group member JTA currently operates a fleet of 737-400 airplanes on domestic routes linking Okinawa with major Japanese cities as well as other Okinawa islands.

The airplanes will be fitted with Boeing's latest Performance Improvement Package (PIP), delivering an additional 2% improvement in fuel efficiency. The airplanes will also feature the Boeing Sky Interior, with modern sculpted sidewalls and window reveals, LED lighting that enhances the sense of spaciousness and larger pivoting overhead stowage bins.