Boeing

Olympic Aviation has selected the Boeing 717-200 to expand its current fleet of aircraft and has signed a contract with Bavaria International Aircraft Leasing Company for two 717-200s. This makes Olympic Aviation the first European airline to put the new 717-200 into service.

The airplanes will be delivered later this year.

"With the 717-200, Boeing offers an airplane that combines a proven, robust design; modern-technology cockpit and systems; and brand-new engines," said Dr. Petros Stefanou, chief executive officer - Olympic Aviation. "This was a strategic decision for us and one which we studied very hard," said Stefanou. "Our market is tough, and we needed an aircraft that would give us a competitive edge. The 717 complements our fleet and gives us flexibility in terms of improved range and payload characteristics, with a state-of-the-art, environmentally friendly airplane."

Boeing developed the 717-200 to meet airlines' needs for efficient, 100-seat transports for regional services where passenger traffic is growing rapidly but does not require larger airplanes.

"We couldn't be more pleased that Olympic Aviation chose the 717 for its high-frequency routes," said Tom Basacchi, Boeing Commercial Airplanes Group vice president - European Sales. "This decision is particularly meaningful to us because Olympic Aviation carefully studied all its options and ultimately chose the 717-200 for its low operating costs, passenger appeal, and the overall value it provides."

The Boeing 717-200 can fly 1,580 statute miles nonstop to domestic and international gateways in Europe.

The airline plans to use the 717-200 for routes connecting Thessaloniki, Greece and Athens to the Balkans and Europe.