KARACHI, Oct 30: Pakistan International Airlines on Wednesday signed an agreement with the Boeing company for purchase of eight new Boeing 777 aircraft.

The agreement was signed at the airline’s headquarters by PIA Managing Director Ahmad Saeed and Boeing International Sales Director Mirguel Santos.

The airplanes will be delivered from February 2004 to 2008.

The PIA has ordered three 777-200ER (extended range), two 777-200LR (long range) and three 777-300ER planes for use on long-haul routes.

The managing director said on the occasion that with the induction of the state-of-the-art aircraft, PIA would be able to compete with other world class airlines in technology and passenger comfort.

He said: “Our decision to induct new high-tech aircraft of Boeing 777 family is based on a plan to handle the airline’s continued growth and improved profitability over the next 10 years.”—APP