By Akram Medhat
The sixth new Boeing B737-800NG aircraft has joined the EgyptAir fleet, arriving at Cairo International Airport the day before yesterday on flight MS3330, to become the 26th aircraft of the same type and the 66th in the national carrier's fleet.
The aircraft is part of the deal contracted with Boeing, which includes 9 aircraft of the same type, and the other three aircraft are scheduled to arrive successively during the remaining months of this year.
In a related context, Safwat Moslem, chairman of EgyptAir Holding Company, stated that under the fleet modernization plan, the company seeks to expand it by 33 aircraft of the latest international models, ranging from short- to medium- and long-haul according to operating needs and the replacement and renewal plan. He added that EgyptAir will soon sign contracts to add these aircraft once it finishes studying the offers submitted by the major aircraft manufacturers and the international companies specializing in aircraft purchase financing.
The new aircraft has a capacity of 154 seats, divided into 16 business class seats and 138 economy class seats. It features the largest overhead storage space for carry-on bags, LED ceiling lighting that enhances the sense of spaciousness, new sidewalls with modern patterns and brighter decor and colors, new window frames, and new power outlets for charging phones, computers and other devices during the flight. The seat pitch has also been increased to 32 inches in economy class and 45 inches in business class, exceeding the space internationally standard on this aircraft type.
In addition, it has a personal video system showing the latest feature films and documentaries, and the cabin has been equipped with advanced entertainment systems. The model is the first of its kind to use the "AVOD" (Audio Video On Demand) system, with a personal seatback screen for each seat that allows passengers to watch independently of the other passengers.
