Beijing-based Dragon Aviation Leasing has taken delivery of first four of ten Next-Generation 737-800 aircraft from Boeing.

Valued at $933m, the aircraft were earlier posted on Boeing’s orders and deliveries website as an unidentified customer.

Dragon Aviation Leasing CEO Jean-Louis said: "Dragon Aviation Leasing is committed to providing our customers with market-leading products and the Next-Generation 737-800 is a perfect fit for our current business model.

"The 737’s efficiency and reliability will enable us to meet the growing demands of our customers who are expanding or replacing their ageing fleets."

"The 737’s superior efficiency and reliability will enable us to meet the growing demands of our customers who are expanding or replacing their ageing fleets."

The new aircraft increases Dragon Aviation Leasing’s 737-800 fleet to 11. The lessor is set to receive six 737s.

The 737s are said to allow the operator to serve the increasing demand for fuel-efficient single-aisle aircraft.

Boeing Commercial Airplanes Northeast Asia sales senior vice-president Ihssane Mounir said: "We look forward to strengthening our partnership with Dragon Aviation Leasing as they continue to bolster their fleet with 737s and expand their business regionally."

Established in 2006, Dragon Aviation Leasing is a joint venture between China Aviation Supplies Holding, AerCap, CACIB AirFinance and East Epoch.

Said to be the best-selling version of the Next-Generation 737 family, the 737-800 has so far logged more than 6,800 orders from customers worldwide.