Boeing

EVERETT, Wash., Sept. 28, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Boeing [NYSE: BA] has delivered the first Next-Generation 737-900ER with the new Boeing Sky Interior to Tajikistan-based Somon Air, making it the first Central Asian carrier to operate an airplane featuring Boeing's innovative interior. The delivery is also Somon Air's first direct purchase of a 737.

"This new interior will set Somon Air apart from other regional operators by bringing a new, unmatched flying experience to our valued customers," said Jamshed Rahmonberdiev, chief executive officer, Somon Capital, which owns Somon Air. "Reliability and fuel efficiency are key considerations and the 737-900ER will contribute to our financial performance as well as help us maintain our high standards of safety in accordance with international air transportation standards."

"We congratulate Somon Air on becoming the first carrier in Central Asia to offer the enhanced 737 cabin experience to its passengers," said Marty Bentrott, vice president of Sales for Middle East, Russia and Central Asia, Boeing Commercial Airplanes. "We look forward to playing a role in Somon's future as it continues to expand its network."

The Boeing 737-900ER is the newest member of the Next-Generation 737 airplane family and is also the highest capacity, longest-range airplane in Boeing's single-aisle fleet. The 737 Boeing Sky Interior takes the passenger experience to a whole new level with new overhead bins, LED lighting, new designs for window reveals and sculpted sidewalls.

As part of Boeing's Humanitarian Delivery Flights program, Boeing partnered with Somon Air, the U.S. Department of State's Humanitarian Program and Project HOPE to transport medical supplies to the country's capital Dushanbe. The relief shipment of 2,852 pounds of medical supplies will improve the quality of medical care for the less-privileged in Tajikistan and help alleviate the shortage of medicines needed for oncology, psychiatric health and in the treatment of infectious diseases.

"Boeing, through its Global Corporate Citizenship (GCC) organization, supports humanitarian efforts around the world in partnership with nongovernmental agencies and non-profits like Project HOPE," said Liz Warman, director of GCC for the Northwest Region. "Our Humanitarian Delivery Flights program is another way we can continue leveraging our resources to help those in need."

Contact:

Saffana Michael
Boeing Commercial Airplanes
Tel: +9714 213 4849
Saffana.michael2@boeing.com

Carrie Thearle
GCC Communications
+1 425-418-8592
Carrie.a.thearle@boeing.com

SOURCE Boeing