China Southern Airlines Takes Delivery of Next Generation Boeing 737-800

China Southern Airlines (NYSE: ZNH) (HKSE: 1055), the largest airline in The People's Republic of China, has taken delivery of its fourth "Next Generation" Boeing 737-800 aircraft.

"We are pleased with being one of Boeing's biggest and best customer," said Mr. Si Xianmin, Vice President, China Southern Airlines and head of the airline's official delivery delegation to Seattle.

Mr. Si added that, "the 737-800 is a wonderful aircraft and we are confident that our passengers will enjoy and feel confident flying on this brand-new airplane."

"We are very proud of our partnership with China Southern Airlines and their successful 737-800 fleet," said Mr. Rob Laird, Vice President, Sales - Boeing Commercial Airplanes, adding that, "this is the perfect airplane for domestic routes in China, providing high technology, passenger comfort and efficient operations."

The delivery of China Southern's newest passenger aircraft is the fourth of 20 new Boeing 737-800 "Next Generation" aircraft in deal that was inked on October 3, 2001.

The 20 new 737-800 aircraft will replace the same number of existing 737 series aircraft currently operated by China Southern Airlines and will significantly lower the average age of the airline's fleet - already one of the youngest civil aviation fleets in China.

The "Next-Generation" Boeing 737-800's range is approximately 3,300 nautical miles (5,926 km), an increase of up to 900 nautical miles over earlier 737 models. China Southern's new 737-800 will offer 167 seats in a two-class configuration, eight First Class and 159 Economy Class seats.

The largest airline in The People's Republic of China for the past 23 years, China Southern Airlines connects more than 80 cities around the globe. Major business and vacation destinations served in China include: Beijing, Chengdu, Guangzhou, Guilin, Hong Kong, Kunming, Shanghai, Shenzhen and Wuhan and as well as international service, including: Amsterdam, Bangkok, Fukuoka, Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Islamabad, Kuala Lumpur, Jakarta, Los Angeles, Manila, Melbourne, Moscow, Osaka, Penang, Phnom Penh, Seoul, Singapore, Sydney and Tokyo.