Boeing Finalizes 25-Airplane Order with Korean Air

SEATTLE, Dec. 29, 2006 — The Boeing Company [NYSE: BA] and Korean Air today announced that the two companies have finalized an order for 25 airplanes with a value of approximately $5.6 billion at list prices.

Korean Air’s order includes 10 777-300ERs, five 747-8 Freighters, five 777 Freighters and five Next-Generation 737s, along with options for eight additional airplanes — four 777-300ERs, two 747-8Fs and two 737-900ERs.

The 777-300ERs will replace 747-400 passenger airplanes that Korean Air is converting to 747-400 Boeing Converted Freighters (BCF), while the 747-8 Freighters and 777 Freighters will provide expansion capacity that will further solidify the airline’s position as the world’s leading commercial air cargo carrier that it has held during the past two years. Korean Air is a key 747-400 Freighter operator and an important customer of the 747-400 BCF.

The 737s will provide additional capability for domestic and regional routes to neighboring countries.

“Introducing the next generation high-tech airplane is one of the strategies to effect a strengthening of global competitiveness, and enhance customer service,” said Korean Air Chairman Yang-ho Cho, “We are planning to provide a ‘high-end’ service to our customers by continually introducing high-tech airplanes.”

“Korean Air continues to develop a tremendous cargo base to complement its successful passenger operation,” said Boeing Commercial Airplanes Vice President of Sales Larry Dickenson. “Our great relationship is built upon years of success and trust, as well as our ability to provide the airplanes that fit the airline’s business model.”

In 2004, Korean Air and Boeing celebrated the airline’s 100th Boeing jetliner delivery. Since receiving its first 707 in 1971, Korean Air has operated several Boeing models, including the Next-Generation 737, 747, 777, DC-9, DC-10, MD-11, and MD-80.

Lockheed lands contract to upgrade Turkey’s fighter jets

Lockheed Martin received a $635 million contract to upgrade Turkey’s F-16 fighter jets. The contract runs through 2016.

Boeing appears poised to take the lead in aircraft orders

Boeing booked 875 new orders in 2006, compared with 694 for its European rival Airbus as of Dec. 21. If the numbers hold, Boeing will take the lead from Airbus for the first time in five years.

Boeing Delivers First 777-300ER to PIA

EVERETT, Wash., Dec. 22, 2006 — Pakistan International Airlines today took delivery of its first of three Boeing [NYSE: BA] 777-300ERs on order. The newest member of PIAs long-haul, wide-body fleet departed Paine Field this morning en route to its new home base at Jinnah International Airport in Karachi.

PIA is one of the first airlines to have ordered and taken delivery of three variants of Boeings highly successful 777 family, and the airline was the launch customer for the 777-200LR (Longer Range). PIA currently has three 777-200ERs and two 777-200LRs in operation and will take delivery in February of a second 777-300ER, as well as an additional 777-200ER on lease from ILFC.

Boeing KC-767 Tanker for Japan Completes First Flight

ST. LOUIS, Dec. 21, 2006 — Boeing [NYSE: BA] test pilots today took the first KC-767 Tanker slated for the Japan Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF) on its maiden flight.

Set to make history as Japan’s first aerial-refueling platform when delivered in February 2007, the aircraft lifted off from McConnell Air Force Base, Wichita, Kan., adjacent to the Boeing Integrated Defense Systems Wichita facility, and logged a three-hour and 30 minute flight before employees, customers and suppliers.

“This first flight represents an enormous step in meeting Japan’s strategic self-defense needs,” said Maj. Kenji Nagatomo, Japan on-site Tanker program liaison. “We are looking forward to having our first KC-767 enter service in 2007. The aircraft has great flexibility in its aerial refueling and cargo capabilities, and will help Japan provide aid to the world’s population during major natural disasters.”

The Japan KC-767 Tanker is a military derivative of the proven 767-200 commercial airplane and was selected over its competitor, the Airbus A-310, in direct competition in 2001. It has been configured with the advanced Boeing air refueling boom and Remote Aerial Refueling Operator (RARO II) system.

“This advanced tanker will provide the Japanese unrivaled tanker capability and operational flexibility,” said Joe Shaheen, director of Boeing International Tanker Programs. “Leveraging more than 540 hours and 180 flights on our Italian KC-767 in flight test, this KC-767 will be a low-risk, high-demand asset for the Japanese military.”

Under contract to receive four KC-767 Tankers, the JASDF has selected the convertible freighter configuration, which will provide flexibility in carrying cargo or passengers, while maintaining its primary role as an aerial tanker.

Boeing also recently completed critical Federal Aviation Administration certifications on the first KC-767 for Italy, and will deliver the first two of four tankers to that country in 2007. In addition to flight-testing the KC-767 for international customers, Boeing is competing for a contract to build 179 next-generation tankers for the U.S. Air Force as they replace their KC-135 fleet under the KC-X acquisition program next year.

Sécurité Civile Orders One More Bombardier 415 Amphibious Aircraft

Bombardier Aerospace announced today that France’s Sécurité Civile has placed a firm order for another Bombardier 415 amphibious aircraft. This order brings the French fleet to twelve Bombardier 415 aircraft.

“France received its first CL-215 amphibian aircraft back in 1969 and, in 1994, was the launch customer for the Bombardier 415. Almost forty years later, France continues to rely on the capabilities of the “Canadair” as the backbone of its firefighting missions,” said Michel Bourgeois, President, Bombardier Amphibious Aircraft. “With an enviable proven track record in firefighting worldwide, the Bombardier 415 aircraft is the reference in the industry. We continue to work closely with the Sécurité Civile and other European operators to further enhance the aircraft’s unique capabilities.”

Since delivery of the first Bombardier 415 aircraft in 1994, Bombardier Aerospace has delivered 64 Bombardier 415 aircraft to firefighting agencies in Croatia, France, Greece, Italy, Ontario, Québec and Spain, with 42 aircraft in operation in the Mediterranean region. Spain operates 14 CL-215T turboprop aircraft and has also acquired a Bombardier 415 last July. In addition, 26 CL-215 piston aircraft remain in service fighting fires in Europe.

Boeing Adds KLM Order for Three 737s and One 777 to Order Book

SEATTLE, Dec. 21, 2006 — KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, part of the Air France/KLM Group, has exercised options for three Boeing [NYSE: BA] Next-Generation 737-800s. The airplanes, with a value of $212 million at list prices, will be delivered in 2008.

KLM and Boeing also announced a contract for a fourth 777-300ER. This will be the 19th 777 in KLM’s fleet, equipped with General Electric GE-90 engines. The airplane has a list price value of $250 million. The 777 order was booked previously on Boeing’s Orders and Deliveries website, attributed to an unidentified customer.

Including the new 737 order, KLM will operate a fleet totaling 29 Next-Generation 737s, a combination of -800 and -900 models, of which 19 are currently operating in the KLM fleet. Deliveries will continue through 2008. KLM also operates 27 737-300s and 737-400s.

The 737-800, the best-selling version of the successful Next-Generation 737 family, incorporates an advanced-technology wing design that helps increase fuel capacity and efficiency, both of which increase range. The 737-800 is powered by CFM56-7 engines produced by CFMI, a joint venture of General Electric Co. of the U.S. and Snecma of France. The engines meet community noise restrictions well below current Stage 3 limits and below expected Stage 4 limits.

Qantas signs firm order for eight additional A380s

Qantas Airways has signed a firm order for eight more of the world’s largest and most advanced passenger aircraft, the Airbus A380, taking the total number of A380s ordered by Australia’s national carrier to 20 aircraft.   

Singapore Airlines boosts Airbus fleet with additional A380 orders

Singapore Airlines has committed to expansion of its Airbus A380 fleet with the signing of a contract for an additional nine orders and six new options, details of which were announced by the airline on 21st July 2006. The delivery positions were protected by options accompanying the airline’s original firm order for ten aircraft in 2001. The first A380 is scheduled for delivery to Singapore Airlines in October 2007. The airline also signed an agreement to lease nineteen new A330-300s.

The A380 is the solution for today and tomorrow’s market requirements to satisfy airlines operating the world’s major long-haul routes. Its ability to carry 555 passengers in a standard three-class layout will provide vital extra capacity to meet the growing demand for air travel without having to increase the number of flights. It will also give them the flexibility they need to install lower density seating without reducing the number of seats available – especially important in the highly competitive business class market.

Thanks to its leading advanced technology, the A380 will set new standards in economy, environmental friendliness and cabin comfort. With a lower fuel-burn rate, lower maintenance costs, and other savings, the A380′s costs per seat run at 15 per cent less than the largest widebody existing today. This makes the A380 a more profitable aircraft for airlines to accommodate the predicted increase in passenger traffic.

“Singapore Airlines’ reputation for innovation, excellence and efficiency has consistently kept it at the forefront of the industry. Airbus is proud that its aircraft have contributed to the airline’s success over almost 30 years and now looks forward to an era of even closer co-operation involving the A380, A330 and also, the A350 XWB-900 in the future,” said Louis Gallois, President and CEO, Airbus.

Airbus’ partnership with Singapore Airlines dates back to 1979, when the airline placed its first order for the company’s original wide-body, twin-engine aircraft, the A300B4. In 1999, the carrier ordered five A340-500s to meet future ultra long-range requirements and inaugurated non-stop operations between Singapore and Los Angeles in February 2004, taking it into the record books with the longest commercial air service in the world. The airline beat its own record in June 2004 with an even longer no-stop flight of 18 hours 18 minutes on the 9,000 nm/16,600 km route between Singapore and New York.

SilkAir expands fleet with additional A320 aircraft

SilkAir, the regional wing of Singapore Airlines, has signed a contract for an additional 11 A320 aircraft, plus nine further options. The airline currently operates an all Airbus fleet of five A319s and eight A320s, with two additional A320 Family aircraft from an order in 2002 still to join the fleet. The new A320s will be deployed on the airline’s steadily expanding route network across Asia, which currently extends to 26 destinations in 10 countries.

“SilkAir is delighted to deepen its relationship with Airbus, as we take on more A320 family aircraft to meet our growth needs to 2012,” said Mike Barclay Chief Executive of SilkAir. “We have been very satisfied with the performance of our A319 and A320 family aircraft since we began operating them in 1998, and we are pleased to once again select the A320 after a detailed competitive evaluation.”

“Over the past eight years, SilkAir has enjoyed the unbeatable combination of low operating costs and outstanding passenger appeal with its fleet of A320 Family aircraft. We are delighted to continue this partnership and contribute to SillkAir’s expansion in the future,” said Louis Gallois, President and CEO, Airbus.

With more than 4,800 aircraft ordered and 2,900 delivered to 187 operators, the A318, A319, A320 and A321 make up the world’s best-selling single-aisle aircraft family. Designed to optimise revenue through cabin adaptability and passenger comfort and featuring the most modern and complete fly-by-wire technology available on any single-aisle aircraft, they ensure savings in every element of direct operating cost and provide operators with the highest degree of operational commonality and economy for aircraft in the 100-220 seat category.

The A320 Family’s optimised cabin cross-section – the widest single-aisle fuselage on the market – sets new standards for passenger cabin flexibility in this segment. It allows for top-of-the-range comfort with wider seats and aisles, or an extra-wide aisle for the fast turnarounds that are essential in the low-cost markets. Superior cabin size and shape allow larger overhead stowage to be fitted for faster boarding and deplaning as well as greater convenience.

Switzerland’s Sky Work Airlines Orders A Bombardier Q400 Airliner

Toronto, December 20, 2006

Sky Work Airlines of Bern, Switzerland has placed a firm order for one Bombardier Q400 turboprop airliner, Bombardier Aerospace announced today.

The value of the order based on the Q400 aircraft list price is approximately $25.6 million US.

 “We selected the Bombardier Q400 to provide increased capacity because of its extremely low operating costs, remarkable 360 knot (667 km/h) speed, good runaway performances and outstanding passenger comfort,” said Alex Gribi, President, Sky Work Airlines.

“The Q400 turboprop continues to attract new customers and to set the standard for regional air transport,” said Steven Ridolfi, President, Bombardier Regional Aircraft. “I thank Sky Work Airlines for its confidence in Bombardier and the Q400 aircraft.
The Sky Work Group operates several business jets and Sky Work Airlines currently operates a Fairchild-Dornier 328 aircraft and flies scheduled and charter routes to several points in Europe.

Sky Work Airlines is the ninth European operator for the Q400 aircraft and joins Augsburg Airlines of Germany, Austrian arrows, FlyBE of the United Kingdom, Luxair of Luxemburg, SAS of Sweden, M1 Travel/Flybaboo of Switzerland, Sécurité Civile of France and Widerøe of Norway. Those carriers are operating or have on firm order, 95 Bombardier Q400 aircraft.

Boeing Delivers First 747-400ER Freighter to TNT, Guggenheim Aviation Partners

SEATTLE, Dec. 20, 2006 — Boeing [NYSE:BA], TNT and Guggenheim Aviation Partners celebrated the delivery of both customers’ first 747-400ER Freighter.

The milestone airplane was delivered to Guggenheim Aviation Partners (GAP) and will be put into service by TNT, the Netherlands-based global express and mail delivery services company.

“The arrival of the first TNT-owned Boeing 747 is a major step towards achieving our strategic objective of being the number one carrier between Asia and Europe,” said Peter Bakker, TNT Chief Executive Officer. “The aircraft will seamlessly link into TNT’s air and road networks in Europe. This will provide TNT’s customers with the fastest guaranteed transit times to Europe, while having full visibility and control through TNT’s integrated IT-services, resulting in lower inventory costs, overall supply chain costs and increase of customer satisfaction.”

TNT currently operates a fleet of 46 aircraft that includes six Boeing 737 Freighters and one Boeing 757 Freighter. The company will add a second 747-400ER Freighter to its fleet in spring 2007, in cooperation with GAP.

“We congratulate TNT as it adds the Boeing 747 Freighter – the standard of the air cargo industry – to its global fleet,” said Marlin Dailey, vice president of Europe, Russia and Central Asia Sales, Boeing Commercial Airplanes. “The excellent economics and environmental performance of the Boeing 747-400ER Freighter have contributed to the continued success and market leadership of the 747 Freighter family.”

Investment funds managed by GAP currently own a fleet of 31 Boeing aircraft. Today’s delivery is the first from an order for six 747-400ER Freighters placed in June 2005. The U.S.-based aviation investment firm placed additional orders earlier this year for four 747-8 Freighters and three 777 Freighters.

Boeing is the undisputed air cargo market leader, providing over 90 percent of the total worldwide dedicated freighter capacity. The Boeing 747 Freighter family alone carries half of the world’s freighter cargo. The 747 Freighter features a distinctive nose door, which allows increased revenue by accommodating high-value outsize shipments, and a side door, which provides superior efficiency and flexibility in ground operations.

In Boeing’s World Air Cargo Forecast 2006/2007, Boeing forecasts that world air cargo growth is expected to expand at an average annual rate of 6.1 percent over the next 20 years. European air cargo markets comprise approximately one-third of the world’s air cargo traffic.

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