New 737 Order: Boeing and Russia's Sberbank Announce $1 Billion Deal

Add another $1 billion worth of orders for the Next-Generation 737-800s built at Boeing’s Renton plant.

The company and Sberbank of Russia on Thursday announced a deal for 12 of the jets, to be leased under Sberbank’s agreement with one of its prime corporate customers, Transaero.

The deal, worth $1 billion at current list prices, is seen as a big step in laying the groundwork for financing and leasing of imported aircraft in Russia. Sberbank is the largest bank in Russia, according to a Boeing press release.

"The agreement that we have reached today marks a very significant step forward and is evidence of Sberbank's commitment to aviation financing. It substantially contributes to the development of trade and economic relations between Russia and the U.S.," said Herman Gref, CEO and chairman of the board of Sberbank of Russia.

Said Boeing vice president for Middle East, Russia and Central Asia sale Marty Bentrott: "This is a historic milestone in our long-term relationship with Sberbank and yet another strong endorsement of the 737.”

The Boeing 737-800 is one of the best-selling versions of the Next-Generation 737s, which Boeing says is the most technologically advanced airplane in the single-aisle market. The 737 overall is considered the most successful commercial airliner ever made, first taking flight in 1967 and with more than 9,300 ordered.

For the full press release, click here.