On Jan. 25, the Boeing Company delivered the first of 50 Next-Generation 737s to Oslo-based low-fare airline Norwegian Air Shuttle. The 737-800 with Blended Winglets, on lease from Babcock & Brown Aircraft Management, is the first Next-Generation 737 to enter the airline's fleet.

"Taking delivery of this airplane is an important milestone in Norwegian's young history. We are strengthening our position on the Nordic and European market with the most cost-efficient airplane available," said Bjorn Kjos, CEO of Norwegian Air Shuttle ASA. "With this new airplane, we will emit 22 percent less CO2 compared to the current airplanes in our fleet. This is a substantial benefit to the environment."

Norwegian will be taking delivery of 50 new Next-Generation 737-800s. In May 2007, the airline announced lease agreements for eight new airplanes followed by a direct purchase agreement with Boeing for 42 Next-Generation 737s, announced in August 2007. The latter is the largest order placed by any Scandinavian airline.