Boeing and Norwegian Air Shuttle ASA, commercially branded ‘Norwegian,’ today announced an order for 15 Next-Generation 737-800 airplanes at the international 2011 Paris Air Show. The order, valued at $1.2 billion at list prices, brings the total number of 737-800s Norwegian has ordered direct from Boeing to 78.

The carrier also has finalized its contract to purchase three Boeing 787 Dreamliners, an agreement the Oslo based operator announced in May, which brings the total number of Boeing 787s it will operate to five including two to be leased from ILFC.

The order announcement was made at the Paris Air Show by Boeing Commercial Airplanes Vice President of Sales & Marketing Marlin Dailey and Norwegian Air Shuttle CEO Bjorn Kjos.

“Norwegian continues to be a leader in the industry by providing its passengers with both the new Boeing Sky Interior and Wi-Fi on its new Boeing 737-800’s – this is a terrific combination for passengers on the most fuel efficient single-aisle airline operating in today’s market,” Dailey said. “Norwegian has achieved great success and we take pride in the 737’s contribution to its achievements.”

“At Norwegian, we are committed to being progressive and thinking long term. This order gives us an opportunity to secure and invest in the company’s future. These new Boeing 737-800s aircraft will give us a tremendous competitive advantage, enabling us to reduce our overall costs even more,” said Norwegian’s CEO Bjorn Kjos. “Brand new, fuel-efficient aircraft are necessary for us to continue to grow. In the long run, owning is more advantageous than leasing and as we begin to phase out our older aircraft, it is crucial we are able to purchase new airplanes. From an environmental perspective, we know that Boeing is continuously working on measures to reduce emissions, making new aircraft a win-win for both the environment, our passengers and for us as a company,” he added.

Boeing press release