Midwest Express places order for 25 Boeing 717 aircraft

Airline Industry Information, April 16, 2002

AIRLINE INDUSTRY INFORMATION-(C)1997-2002 M2 COMMUNICATIONS LTD

Midwest Express Airlines has reportedly placed a firm order with US aircraft manufacturer Boeing Co for 25 Boeing 717 aircraft and options for an additional 25 aircraft.

The order, worth USD940m, is an increase on the airline's previous plan to order just 20 Boeing 717 aircraft. The airline will take delivery of the first aircraft in February 2003 and will continue receiving the aircraft at a rate of one per month until 2005. The Boeing 717 will be configured with 88 seats, while other airlines generally have 117 to 123 seats.

Midwest Express has also finalised an order with aeroengine manufacturer Rolls-Royce for 25 BR715-powered Boeing 717-200 twinjets, with an option for a further 25. The delivery of the engines will also begin in February 2003.

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