Boeing and Turkish Airlines (THY) have announced the Istanbul-based carrier has exercised options for 15 Next-Generation 737s. The order, comprised of 10 737-800s and 5 737-900ERs, has an average list-price value of more than US$1.2 billion.

Boeing has received orders from 14 customers for a total of 305 737-900ERs, the newest member of the 737 family. The higher capacity, longer-range derivative of the 737-900 was launched in July 2005. The 737-900ER offers 6 percent lower operating costs per trip and 4 percent lower operating costs per seat mile than competing models.

Boeing will deliver all of Turkish Airlines new Next-Generation 737s with the innovative Boeing Sky Interior. The new interior introduces larger overhead stowage bins with a new pivoting design that provides more open space in the cabin.

Passengers will enjoy soft blue sky overhead simulated by light-emitting diode (LED) lighting. The new interior also features modern, sculpted sidewalls and window reveals to draw passengers' eyes to the view outside the window, as well as cove lighting and curving architecture.

"Today's 737 order is another important step in our partnership with Turkish Airlines," said Marlin Dailey, vice president of Sales & Marketing for Boeing Commercial Airplanes. "The new Boeing Sky Interior, combined with the 737's industry-leading reliability and superior operating efficiency, provides the perfect tool for Turkish Airlines to continue its successful network expansion."

"These new Boeing 737 aircraft will help us to reach even more cities and build a truly global network," said Turkish Airlines CEO, Dr. Temel Kotil. "We are very eager to have these new aircraft join the Turkish Airlines fleet-increasing efficiency, reliability and passenger comfort."

Today's operators fly 737s that are 5 percent more fuel efficient than the first Next-Generation 737s and additional improvements are on the way. Boeing's performance improvement package will boost fuel efficiency a further 2 percent through aerodynamic and engine changes. The improvements to the airframe and engine are expected to be in service between mid-2011 and early 2012 and will be incorporated into the 15 aircraft ordered by THY.