Boeing, Arik Air Announce Next-Generation 737 Order

-- Nigerian airline pursuing fleet modernization with order for seven 737-800s


FARNBOROUGH, United Kingdom, July 2008 -- Boeing [NYSE: BA] and Arik Air today announced an order for an additional seven Next-Generation 737s at the Farnborough Airshow. The airline ordered 10 Next-Generation 737s in September 2007 and now has a total of 17 Next-Generation 737s on order. Arik Air currently operates six 737-700s. Today’s order has been attributed on Boeing’s Orders & Deliveries Web site to an unidentified customer.

“We are committed to the advancement of Nigerian aviation through the utilization of the most modern and reliable airplanes available today,” said Arik Air Chairman Sir Arumemi-Johnson, in remarks prepared for the event. “With the Next-Generation 737 as the cornerstone of our regional operations, Arik is well positioned across the Boeing product line to pursue our growth plan and usher in a new era of commercial aviation in Nigeria.”

Arik Air has five 777-300ERs (Extended Range) and seven 787-9 Dreamliners on order. The airline also announced its intent to purchase four 747-8 Intercontinentals.

“Arik Air has set a new standard for commercial airlines operating in Nigeria,” said Ray Conner, vice president of sales, Boeing Commercial Airplanes. ’We value our relationship with this remarkable airline and know that operating Boeing jets will increase Arik’s efficiency and offers its passengers the highest levels of comfort and reliability"

Arik Air is Nigeria’s fastest-growing privately owned airline and serves more than 14 domestic routes with a fleet of 18 airplanes.