China Airlines orders 10 B777s
China Airlines (CAL) has announced plans to take delivery of 10 Boeing 777 aircraft.
The Taiwanese carrier will lease four new B777-300ER passenger aircraft from GE Capital Aviation Services (GECAS), as well as purchasing six B777-300ERs direct from Boeing. Deliveries of both the leased and purchased aircraft will commence in 2014.
“The introduction of the 777-300ER into our fleet is another important step toward growing our global operations and enhancing our product offering,” said CAL’s President, Huang-Hsiang Sun.
The airline added that the new aircraft would feature new interiors that “will enhance the flying experience for passengers”, although no further details were revealed.
“China Airlines has been a valued Boeing customer for more than 50 years and we are honoured the airline has chosen the 777-300ER to expand its long-haul fleet,” said Ray Conner, President & CEO of Boeing’s commercial unit. “The introduction of the new 777-300ERs will provide China Airlines with new state-of-the-art cabin interiors, while adding improved airplane performance and economics to its long-haul fleet.”
The airline will use the new twin-aisle aircraft on its long-haul routes from Taipei’s Taoyuan airport to Europe and North America. The new aircraft will also mark the first ever B777s operated by CAL. The carrier currently flies a mix of B747s, Airbus A330s and A340s on its long-haul routes.