Carrier expands its Boeing 777 fleet to 39 airplanes

SEATTLE, Aug. 18, 2011 /PRNewswire/ — Boeing (NYSE: BA) and Thai Airways International (THAI) have finalized a firm order for six 777-300 Extended Range (ER) airplanes.

The order completes an agreement to purchase Boeing 777-300ERs announced during the Paris Air Show in June. At list prices, the order is valued at $1.7 billion.

“These additional Boeing 777-300ERs will support our commitment to expanding market presence while delivering profitable growth,” said Piyasvasti Amranand, president of THAI. “The 777-300ER sets the standard for twin-aisle reliability because Boeing continuously incorporates new technology and innovations into the airplane to improve operating cost and airplane performance. And, with a wider and more spacious cabin, the Boeing 777-300ER is preferred by passengers in every class.”

THAI currently operates nearly every 777 model produced, including the 777-200, 777-200ER, 777-300 and 777-300ER. In addition, THAI Cargo became the first carrier in Southeast Asia to utilize the 777 Freighter.

In the Paris Air Show announcement, THAI announced that its board of directors also authorized the lease of eight 787 Dreamliners.

“We thank THAI for the trust and confidence it continues to show for airplanes built by the men and women of Boeing,” said Marlin Dailey, vice president of Sales & Marketing for Boeing Commercial Airplanes. “We look forward to working with THAI to introduce the 787, as well as these additional 777s, into its operations.”

Source and image: Boeing