Airline Confirms 12 Firm 777-300ER Orders, Purchase Rights For 20 More

Boeing representatives tell Aero-News the aerospace manufacturer signed the formal agreement Thursday with Cathay Pacific Airways for the purchase of 12 Boeing 777-300ER (Extended Range) jetliners, and purchase rights for 20 additional 777-300ERs.

"This is one of the world’s best airlines choosing one of the world’s best airplanes," said Alan Mulally, president and CEO, Boeing Commercial Airplanes. "Cathay Pacific’s reputation for exceptional passenger service and effective and profitable operations makes its selection of the 777-300ER especially rewarding."

As was reported in Aero-News, Cathay Pacific announced its intention to order the 12 aircraft, valued at approximately $2.85 billion at list prices, on December 2. The airline plans to lease four more 777-300ERs from International Lease Finance Corporation.

"These aircraft orders mark an exciting and significant milestone in the development of our airline," said Cathay Pacific Airways CEO Philip Chen. "These aircraft will enhance our strength as a carrier and Hong Kong’s position as a global hub and gateway to the Chinese Mainland."

Cathay Pacific plans to take delivery of the new 777-300ERs between September 2007 and July 2010. The 777-300ERs will be powered by the General Electric GE 90-115BL2 engine.

The 777-300ER carries 365 passengers up to 7,880 nautical miles (14,594 kilometers). Recently, Boeing made enhancements to the 777-300ER that improve the airplane’s overall fuel efficiency by 1.4 percent. This amount is in addition to the 2 percent fuel-burn improvement already proven in revenue service by airlines that currently operate the 777-300ER.

The 1.4 percent improvement in fuel efficiency equates to an annual savings of approximately 200,000 gallons (757,000 liters) per aircraft, according to Boeing.

With the Cathay Pacific order, Boeing has secured 127 orders for the 777 in 2005. Over the life of the 777 program, 43 airlines worldwide have placed 800 firm orders for 777s.

FMI: www.cathaypacific.com, www.boeing.com