Boeing

Maersk Air Group has ordered two Boeing 737-500 twinjets valued at US$72 million, Boeing Commercial Airplane Group confirmed today. Deliveries are scheduled for September and October 1998.

The new aircraft will allow the Copenhagen-based airline to further improve passenger service, support its domestic and expanded international operation, and maintain its stringent operating cost controls.

The Maersk Air fleet currently consists of 30 Boeing 737s, allowing the airplanes ordered today to be integrated quickly into its fleet.

Maersk also is the European launch customer for the Next-Generation 737-700. The airline placed an order for 12 737-700s in 1994, the first of which will be delivered this year.

All models of the 737 bear a high degree of commonality, thereby minimizing the training required for pilots. Furthermore, most replaceable parts on the family of airplanes are identical, simplifying airline spares inventory and maintenance.

The 737-500 is among the quietest and most fuel-efficient aircraft in the world. The Boeing 737 model is among the most reliable in history and continues to lead the industry as the best-selling commercial jet of all time. With today's announcement, total 737 orders stand at 3,642.