CHICAGO, Dec. 29, 2010 – Continental Airlines today became the first carrier in North America to take delivery of a new 737-800 with Boeing’s new Sky Interior.

This all-new interior features newly sculpted sidewalls, energy-efficient LED lighting and larger overhead bins that retract into the ceiling, permitting stowage of additional roll-aboard bags. Other features include improved ventilation and cabin-noise reduction for customers and new, touch-screen flight attendant panels and controls.

“When customers first step on the plane, they will immediately notice the fresh cabin architecture,” said Ron Baur, vice president fleet. “This modern interior gives the airplane a more open look and feel while increasing cabin comfort and overhead storage space.”

Before entering scheduled service, the airplane will be flown to Continental’s maintenance facility in Orlando, where it will be fitted with fuel-saving winglets. As part of its ongoing fleet modernization plan, Continental will take delivery of several more 737s with the new Sky Interior in 2011.