Boeing, American Airlines Finalize Deal for 26 Next-Generation 737s

SEATTLE.- Boeing [NYSE: BA] and American Airlines, Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary of AMR Corp., today announced an order for an additional 26 Next-Generation 737-800s, airplanes that will help the carrier accelerate its fleet renewal plan.

Twenty of the 26 new orders are exercised options. The other six are incremental to American Airlines’ 2009-2010 fleet plan announced earlier this year.

“American Airlines continues to execute its fleet renewal plan to control costs while prudently reinvesting in the travel experience for customers,” said Tom Horton, AMR’s executive vice president of Finance and Planning and chief financial officer. “Replacing MD-80s with 737s at current fuel prices provides financial benefits while enhancing the customer experience.”

With today’s announcement, American has ordered a total of 36 Boeing 737-800s in 2008. In addition to the new orders booked this year, American is accelerating deliveries of airplanes booked in prior years.

“Boeing and American Airlines have enjoyed a partnership that spans more than 50 years - back to the beginning of the commercial jet age. Today’s announcement continues that long and successful history,” said Ray Conner, vice president of Sales for Boeing Commercial Airplanes. “These additional Next-Generation 737s will enhance American’s fleet with newer, more efficient airplanes - lowering fuel costs and lessening the environmental impact of flying.”

The Boeing 737-800 is the best-selling version of the successful Next-Generation 737 family. Known for its reliability, fuel efficiency and economical performance, the 737-800 is selected by leading carriers throughout the world because it provides operators the flexibility to serve a wide range of markets.

To date, 117 customers have placed orders for nearly 5,000 Next-Generation 737s. Unfilled orders for the Next-Generation 737 exceed 2,200 airplanes, valued at more than $160 billion at list prices.