Boeing reached a major milestone with long-time customer Air Algerie this week when it delivered the 50th Boeing jetliner – a Next-Generation 737-800 – to the North African carrier. The 737 was the fourth of seven ordered in 2009. This delivery also marked the 40-year partnership between Boeing and Air Algerie.

Since receiving its first Boeing airplane in March 1971, Air Algerie has expanded to include 18 737s and three 767s.

“Boeing airplanes have delivered exceptional value in our growth plan,” said Abdelwahid Bouabdellah, president director general and CEO of Air Algerie. “In addition to the long relationship we enjoy, selecting Boeing airplanes was a sound economic decision since it meant fleet standardization and ability to use experienced pilots and engineers already familiar with the airplanes.”

“Boeing truly values its long relationship with Air Algerie that has spanned 40 years,” said Marty Bentrott, vice president of Sales for Middle East, Russia and Central Asia. “Keeping in mind its customers’ needs and a competitive environment, the airline has focused on modernization – from its fleet to its management tools, aircraft maintenance, training, information systems and in-flight services. We look forward to continuing this partnership and playing a role in Air Algerie’s expansion plans.”

The Next-Generation 737 is based on a key Boeing philosophy of delivering added value to airlines with reliability, simplicity and reduced operating and maintenance costs. Today’s operators fly 737s that are 5 percent more fuel-efficient than the first Next-Generation 737s delivered in 1998, and another 2 percent improvement is on the way. Boeing’s performance improvement package, now being certified, will boost customers’ fuel efficiency a further 2 percent through aerodynamic and engine changes.

Boeing press release