Boeing inks $1.4bn deal with Air Astana

Boeing and Air Astana have announced an order for four 767-300ERs (Extended Range) and three 787-8s. The order is valued at $1.3 billion at current list prices, making this the largest single order for commercial airplanes in Kazakhstan’s history. “Our decision to order the Boeing airplanes is part of Air Astana’s long-term growth strategy to expand and modernize our fleet with newer, more fuel-efficient airplanes to serve domestic, regional and international routes,” said Peter Foster, president, Air Astana. “In addition, we want to offer an enhanced travel experience for our customers which we shall be able to do on these airplanes.”      In addition to bringing big-jet ranges to mid-size airplanes, the 787 provides airlines with unmatched fuel efficiency using 20 per cent less fuel than today’s similarly sized airplanes. Passengers will also see improvements on the 787, from an interior environment with higher humidity to increased comfort and convenience. The Boeing 767 family is a complete family of clean, quiet, fuel-efficient airplanes that provide maximum market versatility in the 200- to 300-seat market. Boeing has delivered more than 1,000 767s that are flown by over 120 operators around the world. “We are extremely pleased that Air Astana has partnered with Boeing to participate in the region’s growing air transport market,” said Marty Bentrott, vice president of sales for Middle East, Russia and Central Asia, Boeing Commercial Airplanes. “Today, airlines are increasingly looking at lower operating costs and fuel efficiency without compromising on technological innovations and customer experience. “We are confident that both the 767-300ER and the 787 Dreamliner will play an important role as Air Astana continues with its expansion plans.”