New Dreamliners Provide 787-9 Launch Customer Growth, Network Flexibility

Boeing and Air New Zealand have finalized an order for two additional 787-9 Dreamliners, valued at $514 million at current list prices. The order, booked in 2014, comes six months after Air New Zealand celebrated the first 787-9 delivery in July.

"The entry into service program has gone very smoothly and we've been incredibly pleased with the aircraft's performance," said Christopher Luxon, chief executive officer, Air New Zealand. "These new 787-9 Dreamliners will provide us with additional flexibility as we move forward with our growth plans."

This order will eventually increase the airline's fleet to a total of 12 787-9s, which will operate alongside 15 777-200ERs (Extended Range) and 777-300ERs.

"Air New Zealand was the first airline in the world to take delivery of a 787-9 and one of the first to recognize the synergies of operating both the 787 and 777. The order shows their confidence in our long-haul products," said Dinesh Keskar, senior vice president, Asia Pacific and India Sales, Boeing Commercial Airplanes. "With its new aircraft and superior passenger experience, it is no surprise Air New Zealand was voted Airline of the Year by Airlineratings.com for the second year in a row."

Air New Zealand is the launch customer of the 787-9 and currently operates three of the aircraft in its fleet. Including today's announcement, the airline now has nine unfilled 787-9s on order. To date, 58 customers around the world have ordered 1,071 787s.

(Image provided by Boeing)

FMI: www.boeing.com