OREANDA-NEWS  On 10 September was announced, that UTair (UTair Aviation JSC) will increase the number of Boeing 737-500 airplanes to ten in its fleet in 2008. The company began operating these airliners in February of this year as part of its fleet modernization program. UTair’s routes are currently serviced by four Boeing 737-500s.

Boeing 737-500 aircraft quickly gained popularity among the airline’s passengers. Since being put into operation, these liners, noted for their convenient cabin space and high fuel efficiency, have performed over a thousand flights and transported over 100,000 people.

The use of Boeing 737-500 liners enables UTair to compose an optimal aircraft fleet structure that corresponds to the needs of the developing air transportation market, as well as cut back its fuel consumption costs, which ultimately allows the company to provide an even more competitive product for the passenger transportation market.

UTair is in the middle of a large-scale aircraft fleet modernization program. According to signed contracts, the number of Boeing 737-500s will reach 21 in the summer of 2009. As early as this year, the number of regional ATR-42/72 jets will be increased to 17. Furthermore, a public tender, announced by UTair to select a commercial civil jet, is still open for bids. Among the bidders to supply 35 liners to replace Tu-134s are world leading aircraft manufacturers.

A firm agreement between UTair and Eurocopter was signed in 2008 for the supply of new EC 175 helicopters. Starting from 2012, the Russian operator will receive 15 EC 175s with an option to buy a further 15 craft. An unprecedented contract in Russian aviation history was signed with the Ulan-Ude Aviation Plant for the supply of 40 new Mi-171 helicopters.