Boeing signs record $22.4-bn deal with Indonesia's Lion Air

Boeing Co today signed a $22.4-billion deal to supply 230 short-haul 737 jets to Indonesia's Lion Air. this is the largest ever commercial airplane order for Boeing. 

The Chicago, Illinois-based aircraft manufacturer said Lion Air, Indonesia's largest carrier by passenger volume, has ordered 230 airplanes, including 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.

The deal, first announced last November 2011 in Indonesia, also includes purchase rights for an additional 150 airplanes valued at $14 billion, bringing the potential total value to $35 billion, although big plane orders come with significant discounts.

"The 737 MAX is the best choice for Lion Air and the best airplane to serve our passengers," said Rusdi Kirana, Lion Air founder and president-director. "We're excited to be the first airline in Asia to fly the 737 MAX and to be the global launch customer of the 737 MAX 9."

With orders for 230 airplanes valued at $22.4 billion at list prices, this deal is the largest commercial airplane order ever in Boeing's history by both dollar value and total number of airplanes, said Boeing in a statement.

The 737 MAX is scheduled for a 2017 entry into service with more fuel-efficient engines.