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United Airlines' merger with Continental Airlines in 2010 is notable for more than just combining routes and adopting a new logo. A key asset from this merger was Continental's Boeing 737 Next-Generation (NG) program, which included over a hundred planes. This fleet has been instrumental in United's transition to the fuel-efficient 737 MAX, providing a foundation for pilot training, maintenance compatibility, and cost efficiencies.
Continental Airlines was an early adopter of Boeing’s 737 NG family, placing an initial order for the Boeing 737-600 in 1996. By the late 1990s, Continental had ordered 30 aircraft, delivered between 1997 and 1999. These orders were part of a strategy to replace older aircraft models and improve operational efficiency with advanced features like improved wings and glass cockpits.
By July 2001, Continental had received its 100th Boeing 737 NG from Boeing. In the mid-2000s, additional orders further solidified its position as one of the largest operators of the NG series in the Americas. In 2012, Continental converted remaining orders to larger variants to align capacity with demand.
