Boeing and Korean Air today announced an order for two additional Next-Generation 737-900ER (extended range) jetliners. The new airplanes will be fitted with the new Boeing Sky Interior and the order is valued at US$171.6 million at Boeing list prices.

"The Next-Generation 737-900ER complements Korean Air's fleet of more than 80 Boeing airplanes," said Marlin Dailey, vice president of Sales and Marketing, Boeing Commercial Airplanes. "The new Boeing Sky Interior will enable Korean Air to further enhance the premium flying experience it provides to its passengers."

Korea's flag carrier is in the process of revamping its fleet with technologically advanced airplanes -- having completed a cabin refurbishment project for its mid- to long-haul flights early this year. The addition of Boeing's Next-Generation 737-900ER will further improve Korean Air's premium service strategy.

The Boeing 737-900ER is the newest member of the Next-Generation 737 airplane family. It also is the highest capacity, longest-range airplane in Boeing's single-aisle fleet. New aerodynamic and structural design changes allow the airplane to carry up to 180 passengers in a two-class layout. The advanced-technology wing design that helps increase fuel capacity and efficiency provides substantial economic advantages over competing models.

The Next-Generation 737 Boeing Sky Interior is the latest in a series of enhancements for both airlines and passengers. It introduces new lighting and curving architecture that create a distinctive entry way. Passengers will enjoy a more open cabin feel and an environment simulated by light-emitting diode (LED) lighting. The new interior also features newly improved and expanded pivot bins which enables passengers to load more baggage and helps keep disturbances to aisle seat passengers to a minimum.

Korean Air currently operates two 737-900ERs as well as a combination of Next-Generation 737-800s and -900s in its single-aisle fleet. The airline's fleet consists of 82 Boeing jets. Boeing Flight Services partners with Korean Air to provide Next-Generation 737 flight training for Korean Air's crews at the airline's training facility in Incheon.

Photograph: Korean Air's Next-Generation 737-900ER takes off from Boeing Field / Boeing