Norwegian expands Boeing fleet

Oslo-based low-fare carrier Norwegian Air Shuttle has placed an order worth $3.1bn at list prices with Boeing for 42 Next-Generation 737-800s.

The order follows on from Norwegian’s recent decision to add 11 Boeing 737-800s to its fleet through lease agreements.

All the 737-800s will be fitted with blended winglets, which Boeing says reduces aerodynamic drag and therefore fuel consumption and related carbon emissions by three to five per cent.

‘The new airplanes will strengthen Norwegian's competitive position in the Norwegian, Nordic and European aviation markets,’ said Bjørn Kjos, CEO of Norwegian Air Shuttle. ‘Also, the airplanes are significantly more environmentally friendly than the ones we use today. These airplanes will reduce Norwegian's CO2 emissions and bring down fuel costs, while noise levels are considerably lower than for other airplanes.’

Norwegian expects to have 11 new 737-800s delivered from 2008 to 2010 under the lease contract.