BOEING and Etihad Airways have confirmed the airline's definitive order for five Boeing 777-300ER (Extended Range) aeroplanes, valued at $1.09 billion at list price.
The aeroplanes will be delivered this year, with the first delivery scheduled for October, followed by two each in November and December.
They are the first Boeing aeroplanes Etihad has ordered to join an expanding group of prominent carriers operating the 777 family. Etihad Airways said the early delivery date of these aircraft would advance its ability to provide service to new long haul routes.
The new aerpolanes’ capacity and range will facilitate the airline’s expansion to new routes in Asia, Africa, Europe and North America.
“We do our utmost to meet the needs of our discerning passengers and we’re pleased to be adding the 777-300ER to our fleet,” said Etihad chairman Ahmed Bin Saif Al Nahyan. “Our objective is to build upon our status as one of the world's top quality airlines. We believe our reputation will be enhanced even further by making the most of the 777's wide, roomy cabin to create a distinctive experience for our guests,” said the chairman.
Lee Monson, Boeing Commercial Airplanes’ vice-president of sales for the Middle East and Africa, said: “We continue to see significant orders for the 777 family, reinforcing the airplane’s reputation for flying long-haul routes as efficiently as possible with unrivaled interior comfort for passengers.”