Boeing

Boeing [NYSE: BA] and Turkish Airlines today said they've finalized a previously-announced order for 15 Boeing Next-Generation 737-800 passenger airplanes, an agreement worth $982.5 million at current list prices.

The Istanbul-based airline, Turkey's flag carrier, will use the airplanes to expand service and accommodate traffic growth. The airline already operates 26 Boeing Next-Generation 737s, the world's best-selling airplane family.

"We are adding new destinations at the same time as we are seeing rapid growth in passenger traffic on our current routes," said Turkish Airlines President and Chief Executive Officer Abdurrahman Gundogdu. "Our Next-Generation 737s have been economical to operate and shown excellent performance. These airplanes will help us to meet this market growth."

Deliveries of the new airplanes begin next year. The 737-800s will replace earlier 737 models and other airplanes in the carrier's fleet.

The 737 is the most technologically advanced single-aisle airplane. Its flight deck features the latest liquid crystal flat-panel displays and accommodates new communications and flight-management capabilities.

"We are pleased that Turkish Airlines continues relying on the performance and reliability of the 737-800 to support its expansion," said Marlin Dailey, Boeing Commercial Airplanes vice president of sales for Europe and Central Asia. "Turkish Airlines knows that their new airplanes will help them achieve continuing profitability and provide reliable and comfortable service."

Turkish Airlines, which celebrated its 71st anniversary this year, acquired its first Boeing 737 in 1991 and its first 737-800 in 1998. The carrier now has 45 Boeing 737s in its fleet. The airline flies to 27 domestic and 76 international destinations. It also is a leading provider of aviation technical services.