ALGIERS, Algeria, Jan. 6, 2014 /PRNewswire/ — Boeing (NYSE:BA) and Air Algerie today announced a commitment for eight Next-Generation 737-800 airplanes. When finalized, the order will be worth $724 million at list prices and will be posted to the Boeing Orders & Deliveries website. Today’s announcement represents a key part of the airline’s continued fleet renewal and expansion.

“The 737-800 continues to be the backbone of Air Algerie’s fleet. So far, we are pleased with these aircraft, and anticipate receiving all eight of these new units before the end of 2016,” said Mohamed Salah Boultif, chief executive officer of Air Algerie.

The 737-800 is one of the best-selling versions of the highly successful Next-Generation 737 family, the most technologically advanced single-aisle airplane family. The Next-Generation 737’s market success has been confirmed by investors who consistently rank it as the most preferred single-aisle airplane due to its wide market base, superior efficiency and lowest operating costs in its class. To date, more than 4,500 737-800s have been ordered by the world’s leading airlines.

“Air Algerie has been a major player in North African aviation for more than 50 years and has already experienced the enhanced performance and improved economics of the 737-800,” said Van Rex Gallard, vice president of Sales for Africa, Latin America and the Caribbean, Boeing Commercial Airplanes. “Today’s commitment for additional 737-800s underlines Air Algerie’s position as a leading carrier committed to providing its passengers with a wide choice of destinations and exceptional in-flight comfort.”

Today’s Air Algerie’s commitment for 737-800s will all feature the Boeing Sky Interior, the 787 Dreamliner inspired cabin. On board, passengers will enjoy a greater sense of spaciousness with decorative sculpted sidewalls, larger window reveals, LED mood lighting and larger pivot overhead stowage bins.

Based in Algeria’s capital city Algiers, at Houari Boumedienne International Airport, Air Algerie currently serves more than 40 destinations across Africa, Asia, Europe, North America and the Middle East. The Algerian flag-carrier currently operates a fleet of 17 Next-Generation 737-800s and five 737-600s.