FARNBOROUGH, United Kingdom, July 12, 2008 -- Boeing, FlyDubai Announce Next-Generation 737 Order
-- Dubai's new low-cost airline orders 50 Next-Generation 737-800s
- FlyDubai plans first scheduled service in mid-2009

FARNBOROUGH, United Kingdom, July 14, 2008 -- Boeing [NYSE: BA] and Dubai's recently launched low-cost airline FlyDubai today announced an order for 50 Next-Generation 737-800s at the Farnborough Airshow. Valued at approximately $3.74 billion at current list prices, the order will be added to Boeing's Orders & Deliveries Web site at the next regularly scheduled update. FlyDubai has substitution rights to convert its 737-800 orders to 737-900ERs (extended range) in the future.

"The Boeing Next-Generation 737 is ideally suited to our mission to bring some two billion regional inhabitants affordable, efficient and flexible travel options to and from Dubai," said Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al-Maktoum, chairman of the new low-cost airline. "FlyDubai will be the first step for a new set of passengers seeking out high-demand tourist destinations in the Gulf States and surrounding countries, while bringing connectivity to all parts of the globe."

The Dubai government initially formed FlyDubai in March. Since then, the airline has been building a business model based on flexible flight operations with a high degree of interactivity with its customers, giving them greater control in booking flights and tailoring their in-flight services. The low-cost airline's operations will be entirely separate from Emirates Airline and Group.

Boeing Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer CEO Jim McNerney hosted a ceremonial signing and press conference held at the air show.

"Our relationship with the UAE is something we truly value and have worked to strengthen over time," McNerney said. "Today's order is the result of a thorough analysis of the contributions the Next-Generation 737 can make to FlyDubai's innovative business model. We foresee the unmatched efficiency and operability of this incredible airplane bringing the same success to our partners in Dubai as it does to so many of the world's most successful low-cost carriers."

One hundred sixteen customers have ordered more than 4,800 Next-Generation 737s. Boeing has more than 2,200 unfilled orders for the Next-Generation 737 valued at more than $160 billion at current list prices.

'I am delighted to sign this announcement for 54 Next-Generation Boeing 737-800s on behalf of FlyDubai. This aircraft is ideally suited to our core business, which is providing affordable, efficient and flexible options for people wishing to travel to and from Dubai.' .

Boeing later introduced the 737-900, the longest variant to date. The 737-900 retains the MTOW and fuel capacity of the -800, trading range for payload. These shortcomings until recently prevented the 737-900 from effectively competing with the Airbus A321.

The 737-900ER was called the 737-900X prior to launch, it is the newest addition and the largest variant of the Boeing 737 line and directly compete with the Airbus A321.

HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al-Maktoum, UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, has approved the name FlyDubai from a shortlist presented by HH Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al-Maktoum, Chairman of the new low-cost airline.

Sheikh Ahmed said: "FlyDubai is a simple, yet powerful call to action. It makes an immediate link to our core business, which is providing no-frills flights to bring people to and from Dubai. The name carries a strong association with the city of Dubai, itself a brand synonymous with excellence, reliability and an international, pro-business approach.

"FlyDubai’s operations will potentially cover an area of some two billion inhabitants. It will support Dubai’s commercial and tourism sectors by serving a new set of travellers, and providing them with affordable air links to popular, high-demand destinations. A lot of ground work has been done thus far, and I’m pleased to note that FlyDubai is on track to launch its first flights by mid-2009." .

Congratulations FlyDubai for the historic aircraft order 50 Boeings 737-800 at Farnborough 2008 Air Show !!!!

Source: Boeing Company

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Reported by Sandra Englund