Breaking: Boeing launches 737-7, -8 and -9 New Engine Family

It's official, Boeing has launched the 737-7, -8 and -9 under the banner of the 737 New Engine Family, with a planned 2017 entry into service. Along with the board approval, which came yesterday, Boeing has announced 496 commitments from five customers. Only American Airlines has announced its intention to purchase 100 of the CFM LEAP-1B-powered jets.

The other four customers are yet unknown, though the balance are likely to be found among the airframer's most stalwart customers: Southwest Airlines, Alaska Airlines, Delta Air Lines, United Airlines, Ryanair, GOL, Copa, Norwegian Air Shuttle, Lion Air, FlyDubai, TUI Travel and Malaysia Airlines

The airlines are likely found - at least partially - among the type's previous upgrade launch customers. Of that stalwart group, all but one - Ryanair - has committed to taking deliveries of 737s with Sky Interiors, and GOL, Copa, Norwegian, Lion Air, FlyDubai, United and TUI all served as launch customers for the update in April 2009.