Mumbai-based Jet Airways has confirmed an order for 10 Boeing 787-8 Dreamliners. The order, placed in December 2006, is valued at more than $1.5 billion at list prices and deliveries are scheduled to begin in 2011.

"This order reflects our desire to be the leader in offering the highest quality of service that is reliable, comfortable and efficient for our customers with the most modern aircraft," said Naresh Goyal, chairman of Jet Airways. "These 787 Dreamliners, which will be used in conjunction with our 777s ordered in September 2005, will bring a new level of world-class service as we expand our international operations with routes to Europe, Asia and the U.S."

Jet Airways currently operates a fleet of 46 Classic and Next-Generation Boeing 737-400/-700/-800/-900 airplanes. The airline will take delivery of its first of 10 777-300ERs in April.

"The 787 Dreamliner will enhance Jet Airways' fleet with both its unmatched fuel efficiency and its flexibility for both regional and long-haul operations," said Dinesh Keskar, Boeing Commercial Airplanes vice president of Sales. "Passengers will enjoy the many benefits of the 787, from an interior environment with higher humidity to increased comfort and convenience."

The Boeing 787 Dreamliner, scheduled for delivery beginning in 2008, provides passengers with a better flying experience and operators with a more efficient commercial jetliner. Thirty-eight airlines have logged 471 orders and commitments worth more than $70 billion at current list prices since the 787 launch in April 2004, making the Dreamliner the most successful commercial airplane launch in history.

Jet Airways, with an average fleet age of 5.3 years, has one of the youngest aircraft fleets in the world. The airline operates more than 330 daily flights to 49 destinations that span the length and breadth of India and beyond including London, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Colombo and Kathmandu. The airline plans to extend its international operations to North America, Europe, Africa, China and Asia in the coming years with the introduction of twin-aisle aircraft into its fleet in 2007.

FMI: www.boeing.com