Aircraft

Delta Air Lines has become the US launch customer for Boeing’s 777-200LR.

The US major confirms that the carrier will take delivery of two General Electric GE90-powered ultra long range widebodies in early 2008. The two -200LRs are converted from a 777-200ER order previously placed with Boeing.

Three more 777 delivery slots are currently listed as unfilled on Boeing’s orders and deliveries website. However, Delta will not say if these too are being converted to -200LRs, adding that the slots “are options at this time”.

If exercised, these three aircraft will be delivered “in the 2008 to 2010 timeframe”, says Delta.

Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) in February took delivery of the first 777-200LR. Air Canada is the North American launch customer for the type with 11 unfilled deliveries listed on Boeing’s website.

Boeing could not provide immediate comment. GE could not be immediately reached for comment.