MIAT Mongolian Airlines is to buy three aircraft from Boeing for USD245 million at list prices. Two of these are Next-Generation 737-800 airplanes and one a 767-300ER (extended range) airplane. The order marks the first time in more than two decades that MIAT Mongolian Airlines will extend its route network by purchasing Boeing airplanes instead of leasing them.

The agreement was signed by Kim Pastega, vice president and general manager of the 767 Program, Boeing Commercial Airplanes, and Orkhon Tseyen-Oidov, president and CEO of MIAT Mongolian Airlines, at the U.S. State Department in Washington, D.C., in the presence of President Ts. Elbegdorj.

“We are making a tremendous step forward with this order, and the Next-Generation 737-800 and 767-300ER airplanes are the ideal airplanes for us to expand our existing fleet to offer more scheduled and charter services from Mongolia to major cities in Asia and Europe,” said Tseyen-Oidov. “The Next-Generation 737-800 has already proved to be a great success with us through its advanced technology and high operating efficiency, and we look forward to realizing the benefits of the 767-300ERs comfort, range and increased payload capabilities for our long-haul flights.”

Boeing Flight Services will provide pilot and technician training for Mongolian Airlines” Next-Generation 737 and 767 crews. Headquartered at Chinggis Khaan International Airport in Ulaanbaatar, MIAT Mongolian Airlines is the country”s national flag carrier. It has been operating for more than 55 years.