Article Posted on : - Sep 01, 2008

WASHINGTON, DC (BNS): Boeing is steadily increasing its fleet of 777s in the Middle East. After delivering a 777-300 ER (extended rage) and a 777-200 LR (longer range) to Dubai-based airlines Emirates, it has bagged orders for two 777-300 ER from EgyptAir. The Egypt order is worth $529 million at current price.

When Emirates received two 777s, it was the first double delivery of the aircraft to a Middle East airline. The new aircraft are the 62nd and 63rd of the model type delivered to Emirates which flies a large number of twin-engine airplane.

Boeing's 777 is becoming a preferred choice of the airlines. It already has orders for 1092 aircraft and more than 355 unfilled orders worth more than $ 91 billion at current price list.

EgyptAir also went for the 777s. "The notable fuel efficiency of Boeing's 777, combined with the airplane's extensive range and large cargo capacity is something EgyptAir values highly in this competitive environment," said chairman of EgyptAir holding company, Captain Tawfik Assy.

"As a new member of the Star Alliance, we look forward to increasing our connectivity across the globe and bringing our passengers the utmost in cabin comfort and service with a dynamic new business class layout that will debut on the 777-300 ER," he said.

EgyptAir joined Star Alliance, world's largest airlines alliance, in July this year as a 21st member. The network of alliance has gone up to 1624 flights per week to 69 destinations. The Cairo airport would soon open a dedicated terminal capable of handling 11 million passengers for the alliance.

The 777s for EgyptAir will come in a new business class configuration with 49 full lie-flat beds. It would have a 78-inch seat pitch. The first of these aircraft is expected to join the fleet in January 2010.

The double-aisle twin engine aircraft for long haul destination is becoming popular for its fuel efficiency. 777s have become the most sold twin engine long haul aircraft in the world. The cash registers are ringing for Boeing even before it’s much talked about and eagerly awaited 787 is still to hit the market.