AI takes first plane delivery from order for 68 Boeing jetliners

By Staff
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Google Oneindia News

Seattle, Nov 30 (UNI) The Boeing Company and Air India (AI) have celebrated the delivery of the first of 18 next generation 737-800s to Air-India Express, a wholly owned subsidiary of Air India.

The delivery also marked the first airplane delivered to AI following the airline's order for 68 Boeing jetliners, the largest commercial airplane order in India's civil aviation history.

The order was placed in December 2005 and is valued at more than 11 billion dollars at list prices. AI's order comprised 27 787-8 Dreamliners, eight 777-200LR (longer range) Worldliners and 15 777-300ER (extended range) airplanes for AI, and 18 next generation 737-800s for low cost AI Express.

''Our commitment to AI and the Indian aviation industry dates back more than 60 years, and we continue to strengthen that relationship over time,'' said Mr Dinesh Keskar, Vice President of sales for Boeing Commercial Airplanes.

''Today marks another great milestone in our partnership with AI as it embarks on its strategic fleet renewal and expansion plan.'' The 737-800, which can seat 162 to 189 passengers, can fly 260 nautical miles farther, consume less fuel and carry 12 more passengers than the competition.

''The 737's reliability, low operating costs and passenger comfort will provide value for both the airline and its customers,'' said AI's Chairman and Managing Director Vasudevan Thulasidas who attended the delivery ceremony here yesterday.

''The induction of this and future aircraft into our fleet will support our mission of providing convenient routes at the most affordable prices to our passengers.'' AI currently operates a Boeing fleet of 11 747-400s, one 747-400 Combi, two 747-300 Combis, four 777-200ERs and seven 737-800s. It also operates 19 Airbus A310-300s.

UNI SU SRS KN1541

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