Fifteen More 737-700s to 'World's Largest Profitable Airline'

The Boeing Company just confirmed a previously-unidentified Southwest Airlines order for 15 additional 737-700 airplanes, increasing the carrier's firm orders to 261 for that model. Deliveries are scheduled for 2004. Boeing had carried the order on its Web site as an unidentified customer since booking it during the second quarter. At list prices, the airplanes are valued at approximately $750 million.

Southwest -- nothing slows 'em down.

"Despite the difficulties in the airline industry, we credit the fortitude and dedication of the employees of Southwest Airlines with allowing us to increase our deliveries of Boeing 737-700s," said Jim Parker, vice chairman and CEO of Southwest Airlines. "With 42 firm orders for 2004, we will be assuring that even more Americans have the Freedom to Fly."

Southwest, the launch customer for the 737-700, has received 132 of the model since 1997 (through the end of June 2003). For the remainder of this year, it is adding 12 more 737-700s to its all-Boeing fleet of nearly 380 airplanes.

"Southwest Airlines' customer service success continues," said Alan Mulally, president and chief executive officer of Boeing Commercial Airplanes. "We're honored that Southwest continues to choose the 737 and Boeing for their business partner. Southwest is the low fare role model for airlines around the world, and the reliable, maintainable, economical and comfortable 737 is a big part of that success."

Last month the carrier said it would add performance-enhancing Blended Winglets (pictured) to its current and future 737-700s. Those winglets extend the airplane's range, save fuel, lower engine maintenance costs and reduce takeoff noise.

FMI: www.boeing.com/commercial/737family; www.southwest.com