WestJets goes for an all-737NG Fleet

CALGARY (Dow Jones)

WestJet Airlines Ltd.’s (WJA.T) board has approved the
purchase of six Boeing 737-600 series aircraft, three to be delivered in 2005
and three to be delivered in 2006.
In a press release, the Canadian regional airline said it has also entered
into an agreement with Boeing Co. (BA) to convert the purchase rights with
respect to 12 additional next-generation aircraft to options for delivery in
2006.
It said the purchase of the six 737-600 series aircraft is subject to
approval for financing from the Export-Import Bank of the U.S. in the same
manner as past deliveries.
At the end of 2005, WestJet will have 66 aircraft in its fleet, consisting of
51 next-generation 737 aircraft and 15 737-200 series aircraft

Clive Beddoe, WestJet’s President and CEO, said:

Today’s order of 600-series Boeing aircraft represents the culmination of a significant study which determined the most appropriate aircraft to replace our 200-series aircraft. The mix of aircraft that will be in our fleet commencing in 2005, including the 600, 700 and 800 Next Generation models will provide WestJet with the flexibility to meet the needs of a variety of markets while providing the cost efficiencies of operating
one consistent aircraft model that has common engines, flight decks,
spare parts and training.

Well, almost and all-NG fleet. But the 737-200’s days are numbered.
At any rate, brilliant news for the 737-600. 😀