Boeing

Canada-based WestJet Airlines has finalized an order for 26 Boeing 737-700s and 48 options. The total represents an increase of six firm orders and 18 options for 737-700 airplanes over an initial order agreement first announced in February. This order for 26 airplanes has not previously been reflected in cumulative order totals published by Boeing.

WestJet also finalized an agreement to lease 10 Boeing 737-700 airplanes through GE Capital Aviation Service (GECAS), with an option to lease 10 more, and announced the purchase of a 737-700 simulator.

"We are pleased to have finalized the details of our new airplane order with Boeing", said Stephen Smith, President and Chief Executive Officer of WestJet. "The order includes the addition of 6 airplanes and the option to purchase an additional 18. With its lower operating costs, and superior passenger appeal, we are confident that the Boeing 737-700 series will fulfill our passengers' needs as we expand our airline across Canada. We look forward to the addition of the -700s as we build our future."

The first 737-700s airplanes, anticipated to be delivered in the second quarter of 2001, will join WestJet's fleet of 22 737-200s. The 200-series airplanes were the foundation on which WestJet built its successful low-cost airline.

"We are delighted to be a part of WestJet's continued success by offering the newest, most advanced design technology family of airplanes in the single-aisle jetliner market," said Seddik Belyamani, Boeing Commercial Airplanes Group executive vice president for Sales and Marketing.

WestJet is well known in the industry as a successful low-fare, short haul operator.

"By operating only one airplane type -- the Boeing 737 -- WestJet has increased operational efficiencies," Belyamani said.

The 737 is the best-selling commercial jetliner of all time, with more than 4,700 ordered. Since its launch in 1993, customers worldwide have ordered more than 1,600 Next-Generation 737s.

The Next-Generation 737, which entered service in 1998, is the newest and most advanced single-aisle airplane family in its class. The Next-Generation 737 flies higher and farther than competing products, and is the fastest-selling new airplane program in history. The airplane's new passenger cabin continues to win praise for its spaciousness, comfort and design, and its new overhead bins are custom-designed to handle more roll-aboard luggage.