(By Balaseshan) Boeing Co. (NYSE:BA) said it has received $14.7 billion order from United Continental Holdings Inc. (NYSE:UAL) and United Air Lines Inc. for 150 narrowbody 737 aircraft.
United Continental, the world's largest carrier, said it would purchase 100 Boeing 737 MAX 9 aircraft and 50 Boeing 737-900ER aircraft for delivery between 2013 and 2022.
United said these new aircraft would allow the company to replace older, less-efficient aircraft to reduce fuel and operating costs, enhance the customer experience and maximize network opportunities.
United said it will begin taking delivery of 100 Boeing 737 MAX 9 aircraft in 2018, while taking delivery of 50 additional Boeing 737-900ER aircraft beginning in late 2013.
The 737 ordered by United can seat up to 180 passengers and feature the new Boeing Sky Interior. The sleek interior boasts modern lines, a spacious cabin with more headroom and LED lighting that offers vibrant color options.
The 737 MAX 9 will be powered by the new CFM International LEAP-1B engine. The aircraft is expected to achieve fuel burn and CO2 emission reductions of up to 13% compared to current 737 aircraft.
The 737-900ER will be used primarily to replace older, less-efficient Boeing 757-200 aircraft that are flown domestically and are expected to burn up to 15% less fuel per seat than the aircraft they replace. CFM56-7B engines will power the aircraft.
BA is trading up 0.49% at $71.87 on Thursday, while UAL trades down 3.71% at $23.87.