Continental Converts Boeing Orders

Continental now has 24 firm orders for the 737-900ER, which flies about 500 nautical miles farther than the existing 737-900. The ER stands for "extended range."

"The new 737-900ER will have among the lowest operating costs in the industry and will allow us to build upon our efficient 737 fleet," said Larry Kellner, Continental's chairman and chief executive. "In addition, the 737-900ER will be configured with 20 first-class seats, providing excellent opportunities for complimentary OnePass frequent flyer upgrades."

The announcement doesn't change the quantity of new 737s that Continental has on order. The carrier still has firm commitments for 60 Boeing 737s and has the ability to convert more of its existing orders to the 737-900ER.

Separately, The Wall Street Journal reported that Germany's Lufthansa will order 20 of Boeing's new 747 jets. The report said the order is worth more than $5 billion at list prices for the planes.

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