EgyptAir takes delivery of its 50th Boeing aircraft

EgyptAir's relationship with Boeing reached a major milestone today when it received its 50th airplane – a Next-Generation 737-800 – from the American manufacturer.

The 737 is the 17th of 20 ordered by the Cairo-headquartered airline between 2005 and 2009. This delivery also marked a 45-year partnership between Boeing and EgyptAir

Since receiving its first Boeing airplane – a 707 – in 1968, EgyptAir 's fleet has expanded to include 17 737s and 11 777s.

"Boeing has played a pivotal role in our growth plan," said Hussein Massoud, chairman and chief executive of EgyptAir Holding Co. "We are extremely satisfied with the Next-Generation 737, which has earned an excellent reputation for reliability and operational efficiency, and has the range that allows us to expand our network further into Africa, Europe and the other medium-haul destinations.

“The 777-300ER is extremely popular with our customers and we see direct benefits due to the airplane's exceptional fuel efficiency, seat-mile costs and economics, in addition to the luxury and comfort of the interior cabin."

Marty Bentrott, Boeing’s vice president of Sales for Middle East said: "Boeing truly values its long relationship with EgyptAir. The Middle East has been a high growth market and EgyptAir is well positioned for the recovery of the demand for air travel in the Egyptian market with its fleet modernisation. We look forward to continuing this partnership and playing a role in EgyptAir 's future."