Boeing

Norwegian airline Braathens, Scandinavia's largest Boeing 737 operator, has taken delivery of its first Next-Generation 737-700. The airplane is Braathens' first of three 737-700s to be leased from International Lease Finance Corp. (ILFC). Six additional Next-Generation 737-700s were purchased directly from Boeing with deliveries scheduled over the next three years.

Braathens selected the Next-Generation 737-700 to supplement its modern fleet of Boeing 737-400s and -500s. In addition to preserving Braathens' fleet commonality, the 737-700s will provide the airline with low operating and maintenance costs. The new airplanes also give the airline operational flexibility in its fleet management, enabling Braathens to continue to expand its domestic and international markets.

The CFM56-7 engines on the Next-Generation 737-700 produce 10 percent greater thrust than the CFM56-3C engines that power the classic 737-300/ -400/ -500 models. The new engines also are quieter, burn less fuel and produce fewer emissions.

With an impressive new livery, Braathens' 737-700 departed for Stavanger for finishing touches to its paint scheme. Braathens' version of the 737-700 is equipped with 134 seats and will offer passengers a new, two-class interior featuring a six-abreast business class.

The Next-Generation 737 builds on the strengths that have made the 737 the world's most successful commercial airplane, incorporating improvements designed for the 21st century. More than 825 737s are in the air at any time, with one taking off every six seconds.