Boeing

Boeing today affirms that KLM Royal Dutch Airlines has announced its intent to replace its Boeing 747-300 airplane types with eight Boeing 777-200ER (Extended Range) passenger jetliners and three 747-400ER freighters. These will be the first 777s and the first 747-400 freighters for the Netherlands-based carrier.

The first 777-200ER will be delivered in late 2003. The 747 freighters will replace 747-300 Special Freighters.

KLM will use the 777 on intercontinental routes from Amsterdam. The 747-400 freighter will be used on KLM long-range cargo routes.

"KLM will join a group of the world's premier airlines who rely on the technologically advanced 777 to provide passengers shorter trip times with convenient service on long-haul routes," said Alan Mulally, president and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes. "In becoming the 14th customer for the 747-400 freighter, KLM Cargo, already a leader in the cargo industry, will operate the world's most efficient freighter -- the airplane that has been a key driver in the growth of the industry."

The 777 also has a reputation for being environmentally responsible.

"With its high-performance wing, efficient engines and lighter structure, the 777 is significantly more fuel-efficient than competing products," said Toby Bright, executive vice president of Sales, Boeing Commercial Airplanes. "Fuel efficiency means not only lower operating costs for the airline, but lower emissions into the atmosphere."

Besides using less fuel, the 777 is quiet and has less of an impact on the communities located near airports. The 777's engines meet community noise restrictions well below international Chapter 3 limits and even below future Stage 4 limits.

Major airlines all over the world, including three of Europe's largest carriers, fly the 777. To date, 600 have been ordered since the 777 was launched in 1990, and nearly 400 have been delivered.

KLM, which began operations in 1919, was a launch customer for both the 747-200, the 747-400 Combi and the 737-900.