Becomes The First Airline In Latin America To Receive Performance Improvement Engines

A B737-800NG with the certified performance improvement engines has been delivered by Boeing to low-cost Latin American carrier GOL Airlines. The delivery makes GOL the first airline in Latin America to receive the improved engines. "GOL continues to do everything possible to diminish fuel consumption and emissions, further reducing its operating costs, which are among the lowest in the sector," said Adalberto Bogsan, GOL's Technical vice-president.

Boeing Photo

The new CFM56-7BE engine configuration, which is now standard on all production 737s, is an improved design that includes a high and low pressure turbine modification. Coupled with drag reduction improvements that Boeing started phasing into 737 production earlier this year, it will result in lower fuel consumption and maintenance cost savings.

Boeing says it has improved fuel efficiency of the Next-Generation 737 by 4 to 6 percent since the first airplane was delivered in 1998. This outcome is the result of continuous investment in the 737 family, including the latest Performance Improvement Package, with specific results dependent on customer configuration.

Sky Interior Boeing Photo

"GOL continues to show its leadership throughout the world's airlines," said Van Rex Gallard, vice president of Boeing Sales for Latin America, Africa, and the Caribbean. "In just its first 10 years of operation, GOL has entered the ranks of the world's top five 737 operators and is included in the exclusive club of airlines with at least 200 737 airplanes in its fleet, including the airline's current operating fleet and backlog of more than 90 737s."

The airplane is also the 100th 737 outfitted with the Boeing Sky Interior, which was designed for the Dreamliner and adapted to the single-aisle 737.

FMI: www.boeing.com