Europe's largest low-fares airline, Ryanair, announced on Friday an order for 32 Next-Generation Boeing 737-800 jets valued at $2.25-billion.

The Dublin-based airline is the largest European operator of 737s and has to date, ordered 281 737-800s. The deliveries of the order are due to begin in 2008.

"The Boeing 737-800 has played a key role in Ryanair's leadership in the low-fare market. Boeing is very proud of our strong partnership and Ryanair's proven track record of delivering outstanding value to their customers and shareholders,' said Marlin Dailey, vice president of Sales for Europe, Russia and Central Asia, Boeing Commercial Airplanes.

Ryanair said the purchase will make it possible for them to reach more destinations and will allow the airline to cater for more than 80 million passengers per year by 2012. The 737-800 has lower operating costs than the earlier 737 models.

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