Boeing delivered the first 777-300ER (Extended Range) to Turkey's flag carrier Turkish Airlines. The milestone delivery marks many firsts for the airline. The new airplane is Turkish Airlines' first 777 directly purchased from Boeing. It is the first of 12 777-300ERs Turkish Airlines has on order with Boeing from 2009 and serves as the platform for introducing Turkish Airlines' new "Comfort Class" cabin for the first time.

"Turkish Airlines continues to grow as a global airline with the 777 helping us to expand into new markets in Asia and the Americas," said Hamdi Topcu, Chairman of Turkish Airlines. "The addition of new Boeing 777-300ERs exemplifies our commitment to delivering high quality service and comfort to our passengers, while enabling us to continue our profitable growth." 

The 777-300ER brings new twin-engine efficiency to the airline's long-haul fleet. The airplane is powered by General Electric GE90-115BLs, the world's largest and most powerful commercial jet engines.

"Turkish Airlines has demonstrated an exceptional commitment to set world-class standards for their operations," said Marlin Dailey, vice president of Sales, Boeing Commercial Airplanes. "The 777-300ER is a great choice for Turkish, as the 777's high efficiency, spacious cabin, and industry-leading reliability combine to help the airline provide a superior passenger experience." 

With this delivery, Boeing is scheduled to deliver four additional 777-300ERs to Turkish Airlines by the end of 2010.

The Boeing 777-300ER is 19 percent lighter than its closest competitor, greatly reducing its fuel requirement. It produces 22 percent less carbon dioxide per seat and costs 20 percent less to operate per seat. The airplane can seat up to 365 passengers in a three-class configuration and has a maximum range of 7,930 nautical miles (14,685 km). The 777 family is the world's most successful twin-engine, twin-aisle airplane. Sixty-one customers around the world have ordered more than 1,100 777s.