The Boeing 717 programme got a substantial boost when Midwest Express Airlines selected the aircraft ahead of the Airbus A318 for its fleet modernisation programme. The new aircraft will replace 24 McDonnell Douglas DC-9s.
The carrier, which is routinely rated at the top of US passenger surveys, has placed firm orders for 20 717-200s, valued at $750 million, and taken options on another 30 aircraft. To be delivered from 2003 through 2006, they will bring Boeing's firm 717 order book to 174.
The deal follows a decision by American Airlines to take delivery of 15 717s on order by the just-acquired TWA. The struggling carrier had taken delivery of four of the aircraft and will have 30 in its fleet by the end of the year. Its original order was for 50.
The remaining 20 appear up for grabs, and AirTran Airways, which currently has 19 717s out of a firm order of 52, has expressed interest in some of TWA's delivery positions.
Midwest, which offers a business-class product at full economy prices from its Milwaukee and Kansas City hubs, will equip its 717s with 88 seats in a two-by-two arrangement. Other carriers equip their 717s with up to 123 seats in a two-class configuration.
Source: Airline Business
