Continental Converts 12 Existing Boeing 737 Orders to 12 New Boeing 737-900ER Aircraft Thursday August 3, 1:59 PM EDT HOUSTON, Aug 03, 2006 /PRNewswire-FirstCall via COMTEX/ -- Continental Airlines (CAL) today announced that it has converted 12 existing firm orders for Boeing 737 aircraft, scheduled for delivery in 2008, into 12 new Boeing 737-900ERs. The new 737-900ERs are also expected to deliver in 2008. Continental is the first U.S. carrier to order the extended-range twinjet that flies about 500 nautical miles farther than the existing 737-900. "These new aircraft will have among the lowest operating costs in our fleet, allowing us to serve high demand markets more efficiently," said Larry Kellner, chairman and chief executive officer. "The new aircraft are part of our continued focus on fleet modernization, fuel efficiency and delivering the best product in the business." Today's announcement for the new Boeing 737-900ER aircraft does not change Continental's firm commitments for new Boeing 737 aircraft. The carrier still has firm commitments for 65 Boeing 737s and has the ability to convert more of its existing Boeing 737 orders for the 737-900ER. Roger & Amanda La France