Just as
seven is considered a lucky number for Boeing, eight is considered to be a
fortunate number in Chinese culture because it sounds similar to the word that
means "prosperity" or "wealth."
"We
are excited to celebrate this fantastic milestone with Boeing," said Che
Shanglun, president and chairman, Xiamen Airlines. "This milestone
delivery comes at a good time to cater to strong travel demand over the
upcoming Chinese Spring Festival period. With the special lucky number livery,
the airplane also brings our best wishes of good fortune for our
passengers."
"Xiamen
Airlines is a valued Boeing customer, and we are proud they're taking delivery
of this milestone airplane," said Ihssane Mounir, senior vice president of
Sales and Marketing for Northeast Asia, Boeing Commercial Airplanes. "The
737 has been an essential part of Xiamen's all-Boeing fleet, and we look
forward to celebrating more achievements together as the airline continues to
expand their network."
Formed in
1984 as China's first joint venture between the Civil Aviation Administration
of China and a municipal government, Xiamen Airlines is China's only all-Boeing
carrier. The airline began flying passengers in 1985 with two 737-200s serving
three cities.
With this
delivery, Xiamen Airlines has now expanded its fleet size to 133 Boeing
airplanes, including 17 737-700s, 106 737-800s, 4 757-200s and 6 787-8s. The
carrier is regarded as one of the most profitable airlines in the world, with a
record of 29 consecutive years of profit.
SOURCE
Boeing
