LeBOURGET, France, June, 13, 2003—The worldwide fleet of Boeing [NYSE: BA] Next-Generation 737s this week surpassed 10 million flight hours, a feat equal to one airplane flying more than 1,141 years nonstop. The world’s fastest-selling airplane family is the first and only commercial jetliner to reach this milestone in record time—five short years.

The newer 737 family, which includes the 737-600, 737-700, 737-800 and 737-900, entered service in 1998. Since then, it has logged almost half the hours accumulated by its aging competitor, the 16-year-old A320.

“This milestone is a tremendous achievement for the newest 737s,” said Carolyn Corvi, 737/757 vice president and general manager. “It underscores the durable and efficient design of the 737, and the value the airplane brings to our airline customers.”

Although the current and earlier 737 models (737-100 through -500) share the same name, there are key distinctions between the two families. The 737-600/-700/-800/-900 models incorporate an advanced wing design and blended winglet technologies that help increase fuel capacity, efficiency and range.

The new 737s also offer leading-edge display and flight-management software that reduces flight delays and enhances safety and flight-crew efficiency. Examples of these technologies include Head-Up Display, which provides pilots with “eye-level” flight and safety information, and the recently certified Vertical Situation Display, which shows the current and predicted flight path of the airplane and indicates potential conflicts with terrain.
Powered by new CFM56-7 engines produced by CFM International, a 50/50 joint company between Snecma of France and General Electric Company, the newer 737s meet community noise restrictions well below current Stage 3 limits and below expected Stage 4 limits. The engines also provide lower fuel burn, lower maintenance costs and lower overall cost of ownership compared to the CFM56 engines powering the 737-300/-400/-500 series.

“The success of this program has been overwhelming,” said Pierre Fabre, president and CEO of CFM International. “We are honored that Boeing and the airlines made us such an integral part of this team, continuing to put their confidence in our people and our product. Through the Working Together Team, we’ve been able to develop and refine an airplane/engine combination that provides exceptional reliability and operating economics for our customers.”

More than 1,300 Next-Generation 737s are in service today. As of April 2003, the newer 737s have won orders for 2,080 airplanes.

To learn more about the popular single-aisle jetliner, visit the 737 Web site.

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