Malaysian airlines ordered 35 Boeing Co. planes valued at as much as $2.77 billion to replace older aircraft and serve new short-haul routes.
The airline has also confirmed an order for six Airbus SAS A380 superjumbos after agreeing cash compensation for late deliveries. Ordering new, fuel-efficient planes will help Malaysian Air upgrade its fleet, cut fuel expenses and take on budget airlines.
The Subang, Malaysia-based airline expects to receive the 737s from September 2010, it said. Each aircraft costs as much as $79 million.
Malaysian Air plans to replace its entire fleet by 2012 after a turnaround plan returned the company to profit last year.The carrier plans to start more services to China, India and Southeast Asia as the easing of flight restrictions and rising wages boost travel.