Boeing clinches biggest ever $21.7bn airplane order
19 Nov 2011
Nusa Dua, Indonesia: The United States announced a massive order for Boeing jets from Indonesia's largest domestic airline, Lion Air, worth $21.7 billion at list prices. The order for 230 short-haul 737 jets is the largest commercial order in Boeing's history, overhauling a previous record set just days ago at the Dubai Air Show.
The deal from Lion Air, Indonesia's largest private carrier, includes orders for 29 Next-Generation 737-900 extended range planes and 201 of Boeing's new 737 MAX, an updated version of its best-selling model and a close competitor of European rival Airbus' best-selling A320neo.
Boeing clarified that 201 orders for the 737 MAX were included in previously announced commitments for 700 of the planes.
The 737 MAX is scheduled for a 2017 entry into service with more fuel-efficient engines.
The White House said the order would support more than 110,000 jobs at Boeing and US suppliers. The order was announced to coincide with president Obama's arrival in Indonesia to take part in the East Asia summit.
The deal includes options for another 150 aircraft, valued at $14 billion, bringing the potential total value to $35 billion, although big plane orders come with significant discounts.
