Two Planes, Two Options For Blue Air Transport Aerian

Boeing announced this week an order from Romanian low-cost airline Blue Air Transport Aerian, for two 737-800s and purchase rights for two more.

The airplanes will join the airline's all-Boeing fleet to provide extra capacity in a fast-growing market. The order is valued at approximately $150 million at list prices.

"We have doubled our passenger traffic every year since starting our operations. Looking toward the future, the Next-Generation 737-800 is the most capable airplane on the market with a proven and impressive track record. It is the right airplane for our forecasted growth in this region," said Gheorghe Racaru, general manager of Blue Air. Blue Air will begin operating a Boeing 737-800, acquired through a lease agreement, later in 2008.

Blue Air started operations in December 2004 as the first Romanian low-cost carrier. It operates from Bucharest's Baneasa International airport offering service to European destinations. Blue Air operates an all-Boeing fleet of five 737 Classics.

"Commonality is key to success for low-cost airlines," said Marlin Dailey, vice president of Sales, Europe, Russia & Central Asia, Boeing Commercial Airplanes. "Blue Air can transition its operations smoothly from the Boeing 737 Classic to the Next-Generation family.

"Romanian industry's proven success and expertise with 737 operations and maintenance help make the 737 an ideal choice for Blue Air. Boeing and Romania's aviation community have enjoyed a positive relationship since the 1970s and today's order builds on that history."

FMI: www.boeing.com, www.blueair-web.com/