Boeing

Air China's first Boeing 737-700 took to the sky today from Boeing Field in Seattle for Beijing, People's Republic of China.

The newest 737 will join Air China's predominantly Boeing fleet of 737s, 747s, 757s, 767s and 777s.

"The 737-700 will be a great complement to our current fleet of airplanes," said Ma Kuiliang, executive vice president -- Air China. "With this airplane, Air China will take more passengers to places they want to go in comfort and style that only the 737 can provide in the single-aisle airplane category."

The newest member of Air China's 737 family will connect passengers with routes between Beijing, Chengdu, Shanghai and other cities throughout China. The airplane is arranged in a two-class configuration to accommodate up to 127 passengers.

"We are pleased that the 737-700 will be joining the 11 737-800s already in Air China's fleet," said Rob Laird, vice president of China Sales -- Boeing Commercial Airplanes. "With commonalities to the 737-800 and superb economic performance, the 737-700 will allow Air China to reduce its operating and maintenance costs, while increasing profit potential on its regional routes."