EVERETT, Wash., Sept. 29, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- Boeing [NYSE:
BA] and Air China today celebrated the delivery of the airline's
first 747-8 Intercontinental. Air China is the first carrier in Asia to operate the passenger version of the
new, fuel-efficient 747-8. The new airplane is the first of seven
747-8 Intercontinentals Air China has on order.
"Air China has been operating 747s since the 1980s," said
Song Zhiyong, president of Air
China. "This iconic airplane has played an important role in Air
China's international development and has also witnessed many
milestones of the reform and opening-up of China. We are very proud to introduce the new
747-8 into our fleet to continue its tradition into the
future."
Air China, the flag carrier of
the People's Republic of China,
will operate the new airplanes as it continues to expand its
international routes.
"We are extremely honored to partner with Air China to introduce
the first 747-8 Intercontinental into Asia," said Boeing Commercial Airplanes
President and CEO Ray Conner. "The
747-8 Intercontinental will deliver improved operating economics,
efficiency and environmental performance in support of Air China's
growing long-haul fleet. This historic delivery demonstrates the
continuity of our long and enduring partnership with Air
China."
The 747-8 Intercontinental will bring double-digit improvements
in fuel consumption and emissions over its predecessor, the
747-400, while generating 30 percent less noise. The airplane's
interior, inspired by the 787 Dreamliner, includes a new curved,
upswept architecture giving passengers a greater feeling of space
and comfort, while adding more room for personal belongings. The
747-8 Intercontinental is powered by GE Aviation's GEnx-2B
engines.
Boeing's partnership with Air China dates back to the 1970s. In
addition to the 747-8 Intercontinental, Air China also has 15
787-9s on order. Air China has
received all of its 20 777-300ERs in the last three years and is
one of the largest 737 operators in China.
Contacts:
Wang Yukui
Boeing China Communications
+86 1 360 131 7722
yukui.wang@boeing.com
Kevin Yoo
International Communications
Boeing Commercial Airplanes
+1 206 766 2906
kevin.k.yoo@boeing.com
SOURCE Boeing