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Singapore Airlines eyes 31 Boeing aircraft

SINGAPORE - Singapore Airlines (SIA) is set to outlay around US$7.35 billion for up to 31 Boeing B777-300ER (extended range) aircraft, with 18 to be delivered between 2006 and 2010, the company said.

The latest order will boost SIA's total fleet of B777s to 77, reinforcing its standing as the largest purchaser of the aircraft in the world.

The Boeing aircraft was selected after a competitive bid from Europe-based Airbus was rejected by SIA's management.

"With its use of new generation avionics and materials, and its higher operating efficiency, the B777-300ER will deliver lower operating costs," SIA chief executive officer Chew Choon Seng said in a statement.

The aircraft's fit with SIA's existing fleet, along with its spacious cabins, were also reasons it was selected.

The B777-300ER, which seats about 350 passengers and has a range of 7,000 nautical miles, will be deployed on SIA's long-haul and medium-haul routes.

General Electric GE90-115B engines will power the twin-engine aircraft.

The new order will allow SIA to achieve capacity growth of between 4-6% a year, and ensure its fleet remains one of the industry's youngest, as the B747-400 is progressively retired.

(Asia Pulse)

Aug 27, 2004

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