Largest 737 derivative takes first flight

Boeing's largest and longest-range 737, the 737-900ER (extended range), has taken its first flight. The new aircraft combines coast-to-coast range with a capacity of 215 passengers, basically matching the former 757-200, which for years was a workhorse of domestic carriers. The 737-900ER probably is the last possible expansion of the 737 line. Chicago-based Boeing Co. no longer makes the 757.
Boeing has so far landed 80 orders for the aircraft, whose first flight was Sept. 1, including from Lion Air, Sky Airlines, Continental Airlines and SpiceJet. Lion Air, a leading Indonesian budget airline, will start to fly the aircraft in the spring.
Boeing will operate two 737-900ERs in its test program for 235 hours of flight testing and 210 hours of ground testing.
05/09/06 Puget Sound Business Journal, US

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