Boeing, SpiceJet finalize order for 30 next-generation 737-800s

November 8th 2010

 

Boeing and Indian budget carrier SpiceJet on Monday finalized an order for 30 Next-Generation 737-800s with winglets in the presence of U.S. President Barack Obama.

Valued at about $2.3 billion at list prices, SpiceJet had declared its intent to purchase Boeing's Next-Generation 737-800 in July but the order was not announced until Monday.

This order was previously attributed to an unidentified customer on Boeing's orders and deliveries website. SpiceJet currently operates a fleet of 24 Boeing 737-800s and 737-900ERs (extended range).

"SpiceJet is already operating a sizeable fleet of 737-800s and 737-900ERs and the new order underscores the airline's confidence in the airplane," said Dinesh Keskar, vice president of Boeing International and president of Boeing India.

"We are extremely satisfied with the Next-Generation 737 – an airplane that is reliable, allows for greater efficiency in maintenance and supports the business plan for low-cost carriers," said Neil Mills, chief executive officer of SpiceJet.

"The aviation sector in India is recovering and business and leisure travel is on the rise," he added. "With the addition of the new 737s, it will help us expand SpiceJet's domestic network as well as support the launch of our international destinations."

By Eddy Gomez