Qantas to buy five Boeing 737s and upgrade Airbus A330s

SYDNEY: Australia's Qantas Airways announced Thursday an order for five new Boeing 737-800s and the upgrade of 30 Airbus A330s.

The additional Boeing 737-800 aircraft are for the flag carrier's domestic service and for delivery during 2014, the company said in a statement, adding that leases on two existing B737-800s would be extended this year.

"The refurbished aircraft will give Qantas International a truly world-class product in global aviation's most dynamic and competitive market," chief executive Alan Joyce told a press conference.

"Growing with Asia is a major priority for the Qantas Group and this investment underpins our commitment to the region."