Pakistan International Airlines has placed a firm order for five Boeing 777-300ERs.

Boeing values the deal at nearly US$1.5 billion at list prices and says the order also includes purchase rights for Pakistan International Airlines to order five additional 777-300ERs.

Based in Karachi, Pakistan International Airlines has been renewing its long-haul fleet to accommodate increased demand for air travel as well as to introduce new routes.

"With passenger traffic in our region accelerating, the new 777-300ER airplanes will continue to deliver the highest standards of technology and passenger comfort to our customers," saidys Captain Nadeem Yousufzai, managing director of Pakistan International Airlines. "The spacious 777-300ER has been an integral part of our long-range fleet renewal program and its excellent operating economics, long range capability and reliability will allow us to expand into new long-haul markets."

In 2002, Pakistan's flag carrier became the world's first airline to purchase all three passenger models of the Boeing 777 family and in that year was also the launch customer for the Boeing 777-200LR (longer range) jet.

Last year was the best-selling year ever for the 777 program, with Boeing's net orderbook of 200 777s in 2012 surpassing the previous annual record of 154, set in 2005.

The Boeing 777-300ER is powered by General Electric GE90-115BLs, the world's largest and most powerful commercial jet engines. The aircraft also features the Boeing Signature Interior, which according to Boeing offers wider seats, wider aisles, more headroom and more seating flexibility.