Japan Transocean Air to Replace Boeing 737-400s with 737-800s

Japan Transocean Air (JTA) has selected 12 Next-Generation Boeing 737-800 airplanes, valued at US$1.1 billion at list prices, to mark the start of its fleet renewal program.

The new aircraft are scheduled to enter into service from 2016.

As part of the agreement, JTA will have the flexibility to switch to the 737 MAX family of airplanes.

"JTA has been the wings of Okinawa for almost 50 years," said Manabu Sato, president of Japan Transocean Air and executive officer at Japan Airlines. "The Next-Generation 737-800, with its greater reliability, superior economic and environmental performance, and passenger-pleasing Boeing Sky Interior will allow us to continue to provide the highest levels of service, comfort and convenience to the people of Okinawa."

The airline currently operates a fleet of Boeing 737-400 airplanes on domestic routes linking Okinawa with major Japanese cities as well as other islands within Okinawa.

JTA's new 737-800s will be powered by CFM56-7 engines manufactured by CFM International, a joint venture between General Electric and SNECMA.

The airplanes will be fitted with Boeing's latest Performance Improvement Package (PIP) and Boeing Sky Interior.

Capable of carrying up to 165 passengers in a two-class configuration, the 737-800 is the best selling versions of the Next-Generation 737 family.