Boeing

The Boeing Company today announced that Impulse Airlines will take delivery of five new Boeing 717-200s, becoming the first operator in Australia to fly the 717-200s.

Impulse, a New South Wales-based regional airline, will lease three airplanes from Bavaria International Aircraft Leasing Co., and two from Pembroke Capital Ltd. They will be the first 717s in the South Pacific region.

The first of the new 717s is due in Australia at the end of this month. The fleet quickly will increase to five airplanes by the end of the year.

"We believe the Boeing 717 delivers the best combination of airline economics and passenger comfort," said Gerry McGowan, executive chairman of Impulse Airlines Pty Ltd. "The 717 is perfect for our route requirements, and plans for quick turnaround times. We also expect substantial benefits from operating a fleet of brand-new airplanes. "

"Impulse has made a good decision to use the 717 to launch trunk route service," said Doug Groseclose, Boeing Commercial Airplanes Group vice president - South Asia/Pacific, Africa, and Middle East Sales. "Around the world, we see the 717 is increasingly the airplane of choice for efficient short-haul airlines."

The 717 features the latest technology in engines and flight-deck systems for its two-person crew. It also offers a spacious interior design with extra-large overhead stowbins, and illuminated, full-grip handrails. Impulse plans an all-economy 117-seat interior in five-abreast configuration.

The flight deck incorporates the industry's most modern and proven avionics technology, configured around six interchangeable liquid crystal display units similar to those on the 737 and 777.

The Boeing 717 twinjet is a cost-effective airplane designed to serve quick-turnaround, high-frequency, short-range routes.

Launch customer AirTran Airways took delivery of the first 717-200 on Sept. 23, 1999. Other operators of the 717 include Trans World Airlines and Olympic Aviation. Bavaria International Aircraft Leasing Co., Pembroke Capital Ltd., Trans World Airlines, and Hawaiian Airlines have announced additional 717 orders. To date, there are 143 orders for the 717.