All Nippon Airways To Receive Aircraft Early Next Year

Boeing recently began final assembly of the first Next-Generation 737-700ER (Extended Range), one of the newest members of the worlds most successful single-aisle airplane family.

The wings, shown here, and landing gear are being joined to the 737-700ER fuselage in the Boeing manufacturing facility in Renton, WA.

Last-stage assembly and interiors installation will begin once the airplane joins the moving assembly line. All Nippon Airways (ANA) is to receive the airplane in early 2007.

Boeing launched the Next-Generation 737-700ER last January following an order conversion from ANA for two airplanes. According to the company, the 737-700ER has the longest range capability of any 737 family member in regular commercial service. The company says it's able to serve new nonstop, point-to-point routes profitably.

In a release, Boeing says the 737-700ER was inspired by the Boeing Business Jet family. It features the fuselage of the 737-700 and the wings and landing gear of the larger 737-800.

Boeing claims it's high-performance derivative can fly up to 2,145 nautical miles farther than the current 737-700. With up to nine optional auxiliary fuel tanks and optional blended winglets, the 737-700ER is capable of flying up to 5,510 nautical miles.

According to information on Boeing's website, the 737-700 lists for $54 - $64 million each -- the company doesn't list a price for the -700ER derivative. The 737-900ER lists for $70 to $80 million each.

US plans to ease rules regarding twin-engine airliner operations over long-haul routes (known as ETOPS) may serve to make Boeing's -ER family more popular. Some airlines continue to operate older, less efficient four-engine aircraft to meet current rules.

FMI: www.boeing.com