Part Of Carrier's Fleet Modernization Program

Boeing Tuesday delivered Aeromexico's eighth Next-Generation 737 as part of the airline's continuing fleet-modernization program.

Mexico's largest airline will receive seven more 737-700s by November as part of a 15-plane order placed last year.

"This aircraft allows Aeromexico to continue offering passengers more comfortable flights," said Aeromexico Chief Executive Officer Fernando Flores. "The 737's operating efficiencies also provide significant savings for our company on both short- and long-haul flights."

In addition to short- and long-range flight flexibility that provides access to 90 percent of the airline's destinations, the 737-700 also replaces older aircraft to comply with the International Civil Aviation Organization's Stage 3 noise level requirements.

Aeromexico's planes have 112 economy-class seats to maximize passenger space and comfort, and 12 Clase Premier seats. The overhead storage bins are the largest available, allowing passengers to stow standard carry-on bags vertically and providing more usable space.

The airplane has blended winglets -- 8-foot-long wingtip extensions that reduce fuel consumption by approximately 3.5 percent and increase the aircraft's range up to 450 nautical miles. The winglets improve the airplane's performance at hot, high altitude airports like Mexico City, and help reduce engine maintenance costs by reducing engine wear. They also contribute to the airplane's excellent noise performance by lowering the engine thrust required at takeoff.

Aeromexico is Mexico's largest airline and a leader for on-time performance and baggage handling worldwide. It operates Boeing 767, 757 and 737 airplanes, and MD-80 and DC-9 jets. From its hub at the Mexico City International Airport it makes more than 300 daily flights to 30 cities within Mexico, 15 in the United States, two in Europe and three in South America. It's a founding member of SkyTeam, the global airline alliance that also includes Air France, Alitalia, CSA Czech Airlines, Delta Air Lines and Korean Air.

Overall, the 737 is the world's best-selling commercial airplane family. More than 5,400 have been ordered by 220 customers since its introduction.

FMI: www.boeing.com