Ariana flies again

and

have finalised a fleet renewal plan that includes the lease of two 757-200s from Boeing Capital Corporation, as well as the purchase of four Next-Generation 737-700 airplanes. Deliveries of the 737-700s are scheduled for 2009.

The agreement includes an advanced 757-200 training package for Ariana's flight and cabin crews and maintenance and engineering staff.

"It's rewarding for us to play an active role in a prudent strategy that will see Ariana's renaissance," commented Lee Monson, vice president of sales for The Middle East and Africa.

Following several years of war and turmoil, Ariana's management has spent the last year implementing a recovery plan to re-establish the airline.

With the signing of the Boeing agreement, Ariana will meet its first goal to bring reliable service to its passengers in time for this year's Hajj, the annual pilgrimage to

.