The Boeing Company [NYSE: BA] today delivered a 737-800 to CR Airways, marking the first direct delivery of a Boeing Next-Generation 737 to a Hong Kong-based carrier.
SEATTLE – CR Airways, which is already the first Hong Kong-based airline to operate the Boeing Next-Generation 737-800, is using the new airplane to open a new route between Hong Kong and Tianjin on Sept. 25, marking its maiden flight. This airplane is the third 737-800 in the CR Airways‘ fleet.
CR Airways turned to the 737-800 to begin jetliner service in June 2006, relying on the airplane’s unsurpassed operating performance, economic efficiency and reliability to operate to China, Southeast Asia and the Philippines. The airline is pursuing a growth strategy that will see the airline incorporate Boeing single-aisle and wide-body jets into its fleet and increase its regional international routes to meet the demands of the market.
„We look forward to working closely with CR Airways as its enlarges its fleet and operations while providing its passengers with airplanes that combine superior operating economics and passenger appeal,“ said Rob Laird, vice president – China, Sales, Boeing Commercial Airplanes.
The delivery of the new 737-800 into CR Airways‘ fleet is all part of its ongoing effort to strengthen the airline as a strong Hong Kong-based carrier with a fuel efficient fleet and to strengthen Hong Kong as an Asian hub. CR Airways is the third passenger airline operating in Hong Kong.
The 737-800, which can seat between 162 to 189 passengers, can fly 260 nautical miles farther and consume seven percent less fuel while carrying 12 more passengers than the competing model.
The Next-Generation 737 has logged 450 gross orders in 2006. As of Aug. 31, 2006, 100 customers have placed orders for more than 3,300 Next-Generation 737s; the program has 1,360 unfilled orders with a value of about $91 billion at current list prices.
