Boeing

The Boeing Company [NYSE: BA] and Continental Airlines today announced the airline ordered another 10 787-8 Dreamliners and an undisclosed mix of 24 Next-Generation 737s as part of Continental's ongoing growth plans.

Today's order brings to 20 the number of 787s the airline has on order, the most of any U.S. airline. The value of the 10 new 787s and 24 737s is approximately $3 billion at average list prices.

The first of Continental's 787s will deliver in 2009. The Next-Generation 737s contained in the new order are scheduled to begin delivery in 2008.

"The game-changing 787, in combination with the popular 777, will provide Continental with long-range, fuel-efficient capability and the fleet flexibility to react to an ever-changing market," said Mike Bair, Boeing vice president and general manager of the 787 program.

With today's order, Boeing now has 403 orders and commitments from 29 carriers worldwide for the Dreamliner. Continental was the first major U.S. carrier to commit to the technologically advanced 787, which is slated to enter service in 2008.

With the 787 Dreamliner, Boeing continues its leadership and innovation with a mostly composite airplane that consumes 20 percent less fuel, provides airlines with up to 60 percent more cargo revenue capacity and offers passengers a better flying experience. The 787 sets the standard for interior passenger comfort, allowing higher cabin humidity, lower cabin altitude, wider seats and aisles, innovative LCD lighting, larger windows and unmatched stowage capacity.