Alaska Airlines orders five 737-900ER aircraft

Alaska Airlines announced (30-Sep-2013) it is exercising options to purchase five Boeing 737-900ER aircraft, worth USD481 million at list prices. Two aircraft are scheduled for delivery in 2015, followed by two more in 2016 and one in 2017. The aircraft will operate in a two-class, 181-seat configuration. The carrier expects its 737 fleet to number 134 aircraft by the end of 2014. Alaska Air Group VP of finance and treasurer Mark Eliasen said: "Today's announcement supports our goal of growing Alaska Airlines 4 to 8 percent a year, profits permitting. The 737-900ER is a great aircraft, with the comfort, reliability and low operating costs needed for us to be successful in today's competitive marketplace." Boeing Commercial Airplanes VP of sales North America Brad McMullen said: "The 737-900ER offers Alaska Airlines the best seat-mile cost of any single-aisle airplane in production, which is especially important with today's high fuel prices. The interior also complements Alaska's excellent customer service, providing passengers with a wonderful flying experience." [more - original PR - Alaska] [more - original PR - Boeing]