Boeing

Spanish carrier Air Europa has converted purchase rights into orders for 16 Boeing [NYSE:BA] Next-Generation 737-800 airplanes. The airplanes are valued at approximately $1 billion at list prices and will be delivered between 2010 and 2014. Air Europa will use these new airplanes on domestic routes within Spain, including the Balearic and Canary islands, as well as on European and North African routes.

Air Europa currently has 30 Boeing Next-Generation 737s in its fleet and 34 on order. "The 737-800 is the ideal airplane for our short- and medium-haul routes, providing great performance. These additional 16 aircraft will replace other Boeing Next-Generation aircraft with the objective to remain one of the most modern airlines in Europe with airplanes that are less than 10 years old," said Juan José Hidalgo, chairman of the Globalia Corporación Empresarial.

The Next-Generation 737 flies higher, faster, farther and more quietly than comparable airplanes, while offering greater fuel efficiency. The 737 airplane family is the world's best-selling commercial jet airplane, with more than 6,200 ordered by 232 customers. "The Boeing 737 is the backbone of Air Europa's single-aisle fleet. The airline's trust in the Next-Generation Boeing 737 is strong recognition of the value it brings to the airline and its passengers," said Marlin Dailey, Boeing Commercial Airplanes vice president of Sales for Europe, Russia and Central Asia. "Boeing offers the very best product and service solutions to ensure Air Europa's success."