Boeing

Bangkok Airways has signed an agreement with Boeing Capital Corporation and Boeing Aircraft Trading to lease two additional 717-200 jetliners.

"Sukhothai" and "Luang Prabang" -- the designated names for Bangkok Airways' third and fourth 717s, respectively -- are scheduled for delivery later this month, just in time to enter passenger service prior to the busy holiday season.

Bangkok Airways, dubbed by Time magazine as a "big little airline," plans to operate the new 717-200 jetliners on routes connecting Bangkok to Xian, China, Phnom Penh, Cambodia, Samui, Thailand, and other future international routes. Bangkok Airways also will be flying the 717s to Phuket, a famed paradise island in the southern part of Thailand, beginning on Nov. 1 this year.

"We continue to expand our fleet and enhance our routes to this region's most distinguished and historical sites, because we always aim to better serve our passengers and provide them with memorable trips from beginning to end," said Prasert Prasartthong-Osoth, owner and CEO of Bangkok Airways. "The 717's big-jet comfort and quietness are major components in making this experience possible."

Bangkok's 717s are configured to carry 125 passengers. The Boeing 717 is the world's best-selling airplane in its class and is designed especially for reliable short-haul, high-frequency service. The twinjet makes efficient use of technology to drive down operating and maintenance costs.

Bangkok Airways is known throughout Southeast Asia as the first privatized airline in Thailand. The carrier currently serves 14 destinations in five countries.