Tue 06 Jan 2009 02:11 GMT

The Boeing 717-200 twinjet is Boeing’s smallest commercial airliner and is specifically designed for the short-haul, high frequency 100-passenger airline market.

Competition includes Boeing's own 737-600 and emerging designs such as the Bombardier BRJX, Avro RJX and Airbus A318.

The first 717-200 was rolled out on 10 June 1998 and made its maiden flight on 2 September.