World’s best-selling airplane marks historic milestone with delivery to United Airlines

SEATTLE, April 16, 2014 /PRNewswire/ — Boeing (NYSE: BA) today delivered the 8,000th 737 to come off the production line to United Airlines, marking another important milestone for the world’s best-selling airplane. The airplane, a Next-Generation 737-900ER (Extended Range), features a special logo.

The 737 is the first commercial airplane in history to reach this delivery milestone. The program has a strong backlog with more than 3,700 airplanes on order, including 1,934 orders for the new 737 MAX.

“The 737 program continues to innovate with new features and technology, meeting the needs of our customers now and into the future,” said Beverly Wyse, vice president and general manager, 737 program, Boeing Commercial Airplanes. “Boeing has a long and treasured history with United Airlines, and we’re proud they’re taking delivery of this milestone airplane.”

United was the first airline to order and take delivery of the 737-200. Since 1965, United has taken delivery of more than 550 737s and operated nearly every model.

“We’re thrilled to celebrate this huge achievement with Boeing,” said Ron Baur, vice president of fleet, United Airlines. “The 737 has been an integral part of our narrowbody fleet and we are pleased to continue this tradition by being the North American launch customer for the new 737 MAX 9.”

Baur said United’s 737-900ER delivered today, along with 737 MAX airplanes the airline has on order, will replace older, less fuel efficient aircraft while providing a superior passenger experience.