Futura International Airways takes delivery of Two Next-Generation 737-900ERs

Boeing last week delivered Europe's first two Next-Generation 737-900ER (Extended Range) airplanes to GE Commercial Aviation Services (GECAS) and its leasing customer, Spanish carrier Futura International Airways, based in Palma de Mallorca.

"We are very satisfied to take delivery of the first Next-Generation 737-900ER for Europe through our lessor GECAS," said Román Pané, CEO of Futura. "Our experience in operating the 737 will be expanded with this new aircraft model, allowing us the longest range possible for our international fleet."

Boeing launched the 737-900ER program in July 2005. The 737-900ER, the newest member of the Next-Generation 737 airplane family, increases the capability of the 737 by carrying more passengers and flying farther. The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) certified the 737-900ER April 22.

The twin-engine jet incorporates a new pair of exit doors and a flat rear-pressure bulkhead that allow a maximum capacity of 220 passengers in a single-class layout. Aerodynamic and structural design changes, including strengthened wings, a two-position tailskid, enhancements to the leading and trailing-edge flap systems, optional Blended Winglets and auxiliary fuel tanks, will allow the 737-900ER to accommodate higher takeoff weights and increase its range to 3,200 nautical miles (5,900 km).

Futura International Airways was created by Aer Lingus in 1989. It operates a fleet of 32 Boeing airplanes and transports more than 3 million passengers a year. Its long-haul services include Canada, Indonesia, Chile, Dominican Republic, Brazil, Egypt and Gambia.

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