BOEING and Etihad Airways have confirmed the airline’s proposal acceptance for five Boeing 777-300ER airplanes valued at $1.09 billion at list price.
The two companies expect to finalise the transaction in the near future. The airplanes would be delivered in 2005, with the first delivery scheduled for October followed by two each in November and December. These would be the first Boeing airplanes Etihad has ordered.
“We appreciate the range and comfort of the 777-300ER,” said Etihad chairman Dr Ahmed Bin Saif Al Nahyan. “This airplane fits so well with our fleet objectives for expansion and its wide, roomy cabin offers us the interior options that truly will make it a distinctive experience for our guests.” Etihad Airways noted that the early delivery date of these aircraft will advance its ability to provide service to new long haul routes.
The new airplanes’ capacity and range will facilitate the airline’s expansion to new routes in Asia, Africa, Europe and North America. “Having another top airline select the 777-300ER reinforces the airplane’s reputation for flying long-haul routes as efficiently as possible,” said Lee Monson, Boeing Commercial Airplanes’ new VP of sales for the Middle East and Africa. “The Middle East is an important market for Boeing, and we’re ready to respond to the needs of the region’s airlines.”