Boeing

Boeing [NYSE: BA] and Singapore Airlines (SIA) have finalized an order for 18 Boeing 777-300ER (Extended Range) jetliners that makes the airline the world's largest 777 customer and ties the record for the largest order of the 777-300ER.

With this order, valued at $4.1 billion at list prices, SIA has ordered a total of 77 of the twin-engine airplane family models. International Lease Finance Corp. is the only other customer to order 18 Boeing 777-300ERs. This also brings total 777-300ER orders to 99 airplanes.

"We are tremendously pleased that Singapore Airlines, a world-class carrier and a long-time partner, has joined our long-range 777 family," said Larry Dickenson, vice president -- Asia Pacific Sales, Boeing Commercial Airplanes. "The 777-300ER will provide superior operating efficiency, an excellent cabin experience for the passenger and commonality with the airline's extensive 777 fleet."

The 777-300ER, powered by General Electric GE90-115B engines, will allow SIA to achieve its growth targets and maintain the airline's fleet as one of the industry's youngest, with an average age of just five years.

"The high-technology avionics and materials, combined with its higher operating efficiency allow the 777-300ER to deliver lower operating costs," said SIA Chief Executive Officer Chew Choon Seng. "The new airplane will integrate well with our extensive 777 fleet, which has proven very popular among travelers."

The 777-300ER, seating about 365 passengers and with a range of 7,880 nautical miles, will be deployed on SIA's long-haul and medium-haul routes.

The 777 family is the world's most advanced, and has the best reliability record in its class. With this order, 37 airlines have ordered 665 Boeing 777s, outselling its direct competitor by a two-to-one ratio. Passengers continually selected the 777 as the most preferred airplane in its class. Since its launch, it has been the fastest selling twin-aisle airplane in history.

SIA currently operates 89 twin-aisle airplanes including 29 747-400s and 55 777-200s and -300s and currently has four other 777s on backlog.