Boeing Expands Training Capability in Europe

SEATTLE, Jan. 27, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Boeing (NYSE: BA) Training & Flight Services has signed a long-term agreement with Blue1 to provide 717 training capabilities in Stockholm, Sweden, beginning the first quarter of 2011. Blue1 is a Scandinavian Airlines' subsidiary based in Helsinki, Finland.

"Enhancing safe and efficient flight operations, with cost-effective solutions implemented closer to our customer's home bases is our main priority," said Roei Ganzarski, chief customer officer, Boeing Training & Flight Services. "Through this partnership with Blue1, we are bringing our 717 training programs closer to our customers."

Blue1 operates five Boeing 717s with an additional four scheduled to enter its fleet by the end of March 2011. "As we transitioned to the 717, it became increasingly clear that we would benefit from a regional 717 training solution," said Mr. Heikki Setala, head of Flight Operations, Blue1. "Boeing, as the original manufacturer of our airplanes, was wholly supportive of our needs and provided an overall cost-reducing solution."

The European Aviation Safety Agency-certified 717 full-flight simulator will be relocated from Boeing's Atlanta campus to a training center in Stockholm. Boeing will continue to support its customers with 717 solutions in North America and Asia Pacific.  

Under the terms of the agreement, Boeing continues to hold the exclusive license to market the Stockholm-based 717 training capacity to third parties.

Boeing Training & Flight Services offers comprehensive training solutions worldwide through its global network of campuses and other locations that best serve its customers' needs.

The Boeing 717 is a proven and reliable 100-seat jetliner, with more than 125 in active service with airlines today.

Boeing