The order includes 100 737s Max 9s powered by CFM International Leap-1B engines and 50 current generation 737-900ERs powered by CFM56-7B engines.
Delivery of the 737-900ERs will commence in 2013. The 737-900ERs will replace United Airlines’ 757-200s that are currently used on domestic routes. The 737-900ERs will burn about 15% less fuel per seat compared to the aircraft they will substitute. The 737 Max 9s will replace United Airlines’ other less fuel-efficient aircraft.
United Airlines chief executive, Jeff Smisek, said,
These airplanes are not only more fuel efficient, more reliable, but they are also more environmentally responsible.
Smisek added,
This order is a major step in building the world’s leading airline, and we look forward to offering our customers the modern features and reliability of new Boeing airplanes, while also making our fleet more fuel efficient and environmentally friendly. These new aircraft, combined with our new wide body aircraft already on order and our existing fuel-efficient aircraft, will solidify United’s future fleet as one of the most efficient and environmentally responsible fleets among our global competitors.
The U.S. airline is a subsidiary of United Continental Holdings, Inc, and is the largest airline in the world and offers connections to more than 1,000 destinations in more than 170 countries worldwide.
