Taiwan’s China Airlines Orders Six 777-300ERs, Leases Four More

Taiwan’s China Airlines has ordered six Boeing 777-300ERs, in a deal which Boeing values at approximately $2 billion at list prices.

The new aircraft will become the first Boeing 777 jets to join China Airlines’ fleet.

In addition to its Boeing order for six 777-300ERs, China Airlines also will lease four Boeing 777-300ERs from GE Capital Aviation Services.

On December 21, 2012, China Airlines of Taiwan ordered six Boeing 777-300ERs, which would become the first Boeing 777s to join the carrier’s fleet. At the same time China Airlines agreed to lease four more 777-300ERs from GE Capital Aviation Services

“The introduction of the 777-300ER into our fleet is another important step toward growing our global operations and enhancing our product offering,” says Huang-Hsiang Sun, president of China Airlines.

“The 777-300ER sets the standard for twin-aisle airplanes with improved reliability and airplane performance. Our new 777-300ER airplanes will feature new interiors that will enhance the flying experience for our passengers,” adds Huang-Hsiang.

Taiwan’s flag carrier is in the midst of renewing its long-haul fleet and plans to operate its new Boeing 777-300ER widebodies on new transpacific flights between North America and Asia.

The Boeing 777 is the world’s most successful twin-engine, long-haul widebody family and achieved a new record annual order total for the family in 2011, with 200 aircraft sold.

China Airlines will configure its 777-300ERs to accommodate more than 350 passengers in a three-class configuration.

The Boeing 777-300ER has a maximum range of 7,825 nautical miles (14,490 kilometers).

China Airlines currently operates 23 Boeing 747-400 and 737-800 passenger jets, and 21 Boeing 747-400F freighters.