Boeing

Midwest Express Airlines, recently ranked the No. 1 Domestic Airline by the 2001 Zagat Airline Survey, has selected the 717 for its fleet modernization program. Midwest Express has signed a memo of understanding to order up to 50 Boeing 717-200 airplanes.

Once a firm contract is signed, it will consist of a firm order for 20 717 airplanes, with options for an additional 30. The value of the firm order will be $750 million, with deliveries scheduled to begin in February 2003, continuing into 2006.

Midwest Express will use the new 717s to expand capacity on existing routes, to launch new service to cities not currently served and eventually as replacements for existing DC-9s. The airline will configure its new 717s with 88 seats.

"The 717 is an excellent fit for us," said Timothy Hoeksema, chairman, president and CEO of Midwest Express Airlines. "It allows us to continue to provide the product that has become our hallmark. Wide two-across leather seating is an important component of that product."