Boeing

The Boeing Company [NYSE: BA] today confirmed an order from Alaska Airlines for two additional airplanes, bringing the number of 737-700s that the airline has on firm order with Boeing to 19.

The value of the two new 737-700s at list prices is estimated at $100 million. Deliveries are scheduled for 2003. The orders announced today were previously accounted for in Boeing's published order totals and attributed to an unidentified customer. Since 1999, Alaska has taken delivery of 16 new 737-700s.

"The 737 Next-Generation airplanes have been terrific for us," said Bill Ayer, president and chief executive officer of Alaska Airlines. "We're thrilled to be in a position to expand our fleet as air traffic continues to increase."

Alaska Airlines, which is celebrating its 70th anniversary this year, operates a fleet of more than 100 Boeing airplanes including 16 737-700s and five 737-900s. The launch customer for the 737-900, Alaska now has five of the airplanes and has an additional six on order.

"It's always satisfying when our local airline increases its fleet with Boeing airplanes," said Toby Bright, Boeing executive vice president of Sales. "We're proud to be a partner with Alaska Airlines for more than 50 years -- much of the carrier's 70-year history -- and look forward to working with Alaska well into the future as they continue to make their mark in the industry."

All new models of the 737 family feature exceptional flexibility in size and mission, as well as superior reliability and maintainability. The Next-Generation models provide passengers with all-new, more spacious interiors and more accessible overhead luggage bins. The airplanes are the most technologically advanced family in the single-aisle market. They are designed to fly higher, faster, farther, quieter and with greater fuel efficiency than previous 737 models and the competition.

The 737 is the best-selling commercial jetliner in history. To date, more than 4,000 737s have been delivered to more than 200 customers around the world.