Long-Range Airliners Will Be Leased To Thai Airways International

Leasing company BOC Aviation said Tuesday it has finalized a deal with Boeing for eight 777-300ERs (extended range) valued at approximately $2.2 billion at average list prices.

BOC Aviation will lease the new airplanes to Thai Airways International (Thai), Thailand's flagship carrier.

"Boeing 777-300ER airplanes have proven their reliability and enabled airlines the world over to profitably operate long-haul routes," said Robert Martin, managing director and chief executive officer of BOC Aviation. "BOC Aviation has helped reinforce fleets for clients worldwide with Boeing airplanes that make economic sense."

The economics and high dispatch reliability of the 777-300ER are expected to dramatically improve Thai's profitability on new and existing long-haul routes. "The new 777-300ERs will enhance our fleet modernization initiative and help us expand to new markets in Europe," said Piyasvasti Amranand, President of Thai Airways International.

THAI currently operates nearly every 777 model produced, including the 777-200, 777-200ER, 777-300 and 777-300ER. In addition, Thai Cargo became the first carrier in Southeast Asia to utilize the 777 Freighter through an agreement with Southern Air Holdings early this year.

"Over the years, BOC Aviation and Boeing have worked together to provide the world's airlines with reliable airplanes that provide superior operational efficiency," said Marlin Dailey, vice president of Sales & Marketing for Boeing Commercial Airplanes. "These additional Boeing 777-300ERs support Thai's commitment to expanding market presence while delivering profitable growth."

FMI: www.bocaviation.com, www.boeing.com