Boeing delivers Air France's fiftieth 777 airplane

Everett, USA: Boeing Company said that carrier Air France reached a historic milestone this week with the delivery of its 50th 777 airplane. The Boeing 777-300ER (Extended Range) is the carrier's 25th of that model type and joins a fleet of another 25 777-200ERs. Together these aircraft comprise the core of the airline's long-haul fleet.

"This is truly a great day for Air France and Boeing," said Pierre Vellay, senior vice president, new aircraft and corporate fleet planning, Air France. "The 777 is the mainstay of our long-haul fleet and elemental to our success and future growth plans. We look forward to further integration of this exceptional airplane later this year, when Air France takes delivery of the world's first 777 Freighter."

Air France is the launch customer for Boeing's newest addition to its freighter family, the 777 Freighter -- the first of which is scheduled to enter flight test in late May.

With more than 50 per cent of its twin-aisle fleet composed of Boeing 777s, Air France has drawn upon the 777's efficiency and reliability to help it achieve strong economic performance. With the delivery of its first 777 Freighter this year and through the operation of a single 777 platform, Air France will achieve significant synergies between its cargo and passenger business.

Air France's new 777-300ER, the world's largest long-range twin-engine jetliner, will be based at Charles de Gaulle International Airport in Paris.