Boeing this week delivered the first 777-300ER (extended range) to Air China, the flag carrier of the People's Republic of China. The new airplane is the first of 19 777-300ERs Air China has on order with Boeing. With this new addition to its fleet, Air China becomes the first airline on the Chinese mainland to operate the new generation 777 family member.



"The introduction of this brand new aircraft is not only a milestone in the cooperation history between Boeing and Air China, but also an important symbol to deepen our relationship," said He Li, Vice President of Air China. "The 777-300ER will be the backbone of our long-haul international fleet in the coming years and enable us to fulfill our ambition to be a large network carrier with international competitiveness."

With this delivery, Boeing is scheduled to deliver an additional three 777-300ERs to Air China by the end of 2011. Air China will use the airplanes for route expansion including direct routes to Frankfurt, London and Paris, as well as for gradual replacement of the Boeing 747-400s currently serving North American routes.

"We have witnessed the rapid development of Air China and we're honored to be part of their success by providing our best products and services," said Ihssane Mounir, senior vice president of Sales for Greater China and Korea, Boeing Commercial Airplanes. "The new generation 777-300ER is a great choice for Air China. Its structural efficiency, industry-leading reliability and brand-new cabin design combine to help the airline remain profitable and provide superior passenger experience."

The Boeing 777-300ER is 19 percent lighter than its closest competitor, greatly reducing its fuel requirement. It produces 22 percent less carbon dioxide per seat and costs 20 percent less to operate per seat. To date 34 customers around the world have ordered more than 500 777-300ERs.

Air China, a member of the Star Alliance, is the most profitable airline in world as well as the world's largest carrier by market value. Air China owns 158 Boeing aircraft, making up 60 percent of its fleet.

News Release Issued: EVERETT, Wash., July 21, 2011 /PRNewswire/

Air China to become first Chinese customer for Boeing's newest jumbo jet

Boeing and Air China today signed an agreement for the purchase of five 747-8 Intercontinental jetliners. Air China is the first Chinese carrier to contract the passenger version of the new, fuel-efficient 747-8.



The agreement requires Chinese government approval, at which time it will be posted to the Boeing Orders & Deliveries website.

"Air China has been operating 747s since the 1980s," said He Li, vice president of Air China. "The new, high capacity Boeing 747-8 Intercontinental will deliver exceptional economics and a great flying experience to our customers."

Air China, the flag carrier of the People's Republic of China, will use the airplanes to expand its international routes.

"The technologically advanced 747-8 Intercontinental will deliver improved operating economics, efficiency and environmental performance in support of Air China's continued growth," said Marlin Dailey, vice president of Sales & Marketing, Boeing Commercial Airplanes. "Air China has become one of the fastest growing airlines in the world and today is one of the world's largest carriers. We're proud to be part of their success and look forward to continuing our long and enduring partnership."

The new 747-8 Intercontinental carries 467 passengers in a three-class configuration. The airplane features a new wing design and an upgraded flight deck. The airplane interior incorporates features from the 787 Dreamliner including a new curved, upswept architecture that will give passengers a greater sense of space and comfort, while adding more room for personal belongings. The architecture will be accentuated by lighting technology that provides smooth transitions for a more restful flight.

Using 787-technology GEnx-2B engines, the airplane will be quieter, produce lower emissions and achieve better fuel economy than any competing jetliner. It also increases cargo volume by 26 percent.

HONG KONG, March 7, 2011 /PRNewswire/