Qantas orders four 787-9 and eight 787-10 aircraft from Boeing

Qantas nearly doubles Boeing 787 Dreamliner fleet with order for 12 widebody jets

Boeing and the Qantas Group have confirmed they have signed a deal on a four 787-9 and eight 787-10 jets to provide a pivotal role in the Australian airline's global growth strategy to reduce its carbon emissions. 

"This is another multi-billion-dollar investment in the national carrier, and it's great news for our customers and our people," said Alan Joyce, Qantas Group CEO. "The 787 and the GE engines fitted to them, are thoroughly proven and extremely capable."

These jets are also capable of flying on a blend of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), an important pathway to reducing emissions, which is common with most of the modern Qantas jet fleet. The new order is part of Qantas' major fleet renewal programme that is significantly increasing the carrier's overall fuel efficiency each year.

"The 787 Dreamliner is central to Qantas' unwavering commitment to operate one of the most sustainable and capable fleets in the airline industry," said Stan Deal, president and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes. 

Capable of flying an expansive international route network, the operating economics of the 787 family enables Qantas to open new routes and add more flights to its existing network. The 787-9 can fly up to 7,565 nautical miles (14,010 km) connecting Australia to North America and Europe. The larger 787-10 with a range of 6,330 nautical miles (11,730 km), will enable the airline to serve many popular international and regional routes. Currently, Qantas has a fleet of 14 787-9 jets. 

Qantas to increase capacity on many routes....

The Qantas Group is currently operating at around 80 per cent of its pre-COVID international capacity levels, which has almost doubled in the past year, and has announced a massive increase in future capacity. 

The airline is adding more capacity on a number of routes including New York, Los Angeles, Johannesburg and Bali. Qantas expects it to reach 100% of pre-covid levels by March of next year.

Qantas has received three long-awaited Boeing 787s in recent months and is gradually able to return more of its Airbus A380s to service as they complete post-storage maintenance, which is enabling flying levels to steadily increase to meet strong travel demand.

 

New flying 

The national carrier is publishing more than 250,000 additional seats* to and from Australia that includes:

Sydney-Bali – larger Airbus A330 aircraft will replace daily Boeing 737 flights from October this year with more premium seats and fully-flat beds in Business Class.

Sydney-Auckland-New York – following the successful launch of the new route in June this year, flights will increase from four per week to daily from August 2024.

Sydney-Johannesburg – for the first time Qantas A380s will operate to South Africa from July 2024, nearly doubling capacity during peak periods.

Melbourne-Los Angeles – capacity will increase by around 20 per cent with more A380 flights on the route from July 2024.

Sydney-Los Angeles – flights will increase from eight to nine per week from July 2024, operated with a mix of 787 and A380 aircraft.

Qantas International CEO Cam Wallace said the additional flying would help support the sustained demand for international travel and provide a boost to the tourism industry.  “Hundreds of thousands of extra seats on our network is great news for our customers planning their next overseas trip,” said Mr Wallace.

“We know our customers are looking for great value and this additional capacity will put more downward pressure on fares.  The additional capacity will largely be made possible through our final two A380s returning to the Qantas fleet following heavy maintenance and cabin improvements.” 

More changes....

Sydney-Shanghai resuming in late October, operating for the first time in more than three years.

Brisbane-Honiara and Brisbane-Wellington launching in late October.

Date set for first long-haul flight to operate with 100% sustainable aviation fuel

Virgin Atlantic and Rolls-Royce this week confirmed the successful Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) blend ground test on the Rolls-Royce Trent 1000 engine. The test marks a key milestone in the project which will see the world's first 100% SAF flight travel across the Atlantic from London Heathrow to New York JFK on a Boeing 787, set to take off on November 28, 2023.

Virgin Atlantic led consortium confirms the world's first 100% Sustainable Aviation Fuel flight across the Atlantic will fly on November 28, 2023, departing from London-Heathrow to NYC's John F. Kennedy International Airport, pending further regulatory approvals and testing

SAF blend of 88% HEFA and 12% aromatics completes successful ground test on Rolls-Royce Trent 1000 engine, a key milestone in approvals process

Fuel supplier announced as Air bp and Virent, who will supply the 60 tonnes of SAF required for project

In addition to the test, fuel suppliers Air bp and Virent have been announced to supply the 60 tonnes of SAF to be used in the world first, supporting consortium research, testing and the flight itself. The SAF will be produced through the Hydroprocessed Esters and Fatty Acids (HEFA) pathway as well as synthetic aromatic kerosene (SAK) SAF at an 88% and 12% blend ratio.

Virgin Atlantic is committed to finding more sustainable ways to fly on our mission to Net Zero 2050. Already operating one of the most fuel and carbon efficient fleets across the Atlantic, this flight builds on the airline's 15-year track record for leading on SAF. Demonstrating that through radical collaboration, industry can deliver 100% SAF in today's engine, airframes and fuel infrastructure for long haul flight.

SAF typically delivers CO2 life cycle emissions savings of more than 70% whilst performing like traditional jet fuel. SAF has a fundamental role to play in aviation's decarbonization and pathway to Net Zero 2050. Today, SAF represents less than 0.1% of jet fuel volumes and fuel standards allow for just a 50% SAF blend in commercial jet engines. The one-off Virgin Atlantic flight in November will demonstrate the potential of SAF as a 100% drop-in replacement for fossil fuel today.

The realization of the 100% SAF transatlantic flight taking to the skies is a challenging task requiring cross industry collaboration and dedicated project teams working on the research, testing and operations to make it happen. The Virgin Atlantic led consortium, joint funded by the UK Department for Transport, includes Rolls Royce, Boeing, University of Sheffield, Imperial College London and Rocky Mountain Institute. The successful bench engine test is a key milestone, however further permissions and safety approvals are required for the flight to take off in November. 

Air Lease Corporation orders two 787 Dreamliners jets

Air Lease Corporation, one of the global aircraft leasing giants has purchased two 787 Dreamliners from U.S.planemaker Boeing.  ALC has been a long-standing 787 customer, placing its first purchase for the 787-9 in 2010. Its aeroplane portfolio currently includes the 787-9 and 787-10.

Since revenue service began in 2011, the 787 family has launched nearly 360 new nonstop routes around the world, more than 10 times as many new routes as other jets in the same category. The 787-9 can fly 296 passengers up to 7,565 nautical miles (14,010 km) in a typical two-class configuration.

"ALC is a key strategic leasing partner to Boeing, and we are delighted that it continues to see the value proposition of the 787 family for its customers," said Stan Deal, president and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes. "With its unparalleled fuel efficiency, the 787 Dreamliner family is playing a major role in pioneering new routes in the long-haul travel market while reducing fuel use and emissions, allowing airlines to meet their sustainability objectives."

Using 25% less fuel and creating 25% fewer emissions than the aeroplanes they replace, the 787 family has avoided more than 125 billion pounds of carbon emissions since entering service.

The 787 family is selling at the highest rate in its history, receiving more than 250 orders and commitments in the past six months.

Iraqi Airways celebrates the delivery of its 1st Boeing 787 Dreamliner

The first 787 Dreamliner arrives for Iraqi Airways

Iraqi Airways today celebrated the delivery of its 1st Boeing 787 Dreamliner with a special event in Baghdad to welcome the flag carrier’s super-efficient widebody jet. The Iraqi flag carrier has taken the first of 10 787s on order, to profitably grow its long-haul network and connect Iraq to more international destinations.

The delivery of Iraqi Airways’ first 787 follows the delivery of four Boeing 737 MAX aeroplanes since February. The airline has ordered a total of six 737-8s and 10 737-10s, providing its single-aisle fleet with more capability across its regional and medium-haul routes.

“We are proud to be taking delivery of an aeroplane with the capabilities of the 787 Dreamliner. As domestic and international air traffic gains momentum, it’s crucial that our Iraqi Airways fleet matches growing demand with more efficient, capable and comfortable aeroplanes,” said Manaf Abdel-Monem, Director General of Iraqi Airways. “The 787 and 737 MAX aeroplanes we have received are key to our fleet renewal program which aims to ensure we can fly our passengers around the world in the safety and comfort they expect from a modern and efficient airline like Iraqi Airways.”

EL AL to lease two Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners from AerCap Holdings

Leasing giant AerCap Holdings confirmed at the Paris Air Show this week that it has signed lease agreements with EL AL for two new Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners. The aircraft are scheduled to be delivered in Q4 2025 and Q1 2026.

EL AL Israel Airlines was founded in November 1948 as Israel's national carrier and operated its first scheduled flight in 1949. In June 1950, EL AL began service between Tel Aviv and New York. Today EL AL, serves more than 60 international destinations in more than 35 countries.

AerCap is the world's largest 787 owner, with 126 aircraft owned, managed and on order.

Speaking during the announcement ceremony, AerCap's Chief Executive Officer Aengus Kelly said, "AerCap is delighted to partner with EL AL on this deal following the long history of successful cooperation between our two companies. We are very pleased to support EL AL's ongoing fleet modernization program with the lease of these two new 787s and help them meet their sustainability commitments. We wish Dina Ben Tal Ganancia and all the team at EL AL continued success."

Dina Ben Tal Ganancia, EL AL's Chief Executive Officer said, "As part of EL AL's strategic implementation plan, we signed an important agreement today for the lease of two new 787-9 Dreamliners, that will join EL AL's wide-body fleet in 2025 and 2026. These advanced aircrafts will be the 18th and 19th aircraft in our fleet. In order to meet our business goals, set in the strategic plan, we are required to adjust our acquisition plan, and I am pleased to sign this agreement today, which is another step towards realizing the goals for our fleet. These aircraft enable us to expand our route network and add more attractive destinations for our customers. I would like to thank our partners at AERCAP and Boeing for their support and partnership along the way.''

Riyadh Air signs deal for 90 GEnx engines to power future Boeing 787 Dreamliner Fleet

Following its recent agreement for a wide-body order of 39 Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft, Riyadh Air has signed a deal for 90 GEnx-1B engines to power its new fleet. The order also includes spare engines and a TrueChoice services agreement.

The agreement was signed at the Paris Air Show at the Riyadh Air chalet, where the airline revealed its new livery to the world following a flyby last week over Riyadh's iconic city skyline. 

Tony Douglas, Chief Executive Officer of Riyadh Air said, "The agreement highlights our determination to significantly extend Saudi Arabia's connectivity with the world and fulfil our goal of connecting to 100 destinations by 2030. We look forward to fostering strong strategic relationships within the wider aviation ecosystem as we continue to shape our new digitally native airline to become one of the most sustainable and guest- centric carriers in the world."

Russell Stokes, President & CEO, of Commercial Engines and Services for GE Aerospace said, "We are proud to partner with Riyadh Air to support its new fleet and fulfil its vision for long international routes. GE Aerospace's GEnx engine is a perfect fit for the 787 fleet with its combination of power and the ability to reduce fuel consumption and CO2 emissions."

Riyadh Air was unveiled to the world in March, and this marks the first engine partnership with GE Aerospace for its new fleet of Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners. The first deliveries are scheduled for early 2025 as Riyadh Air aims to operate one of the newest and most sustainable airline fleets in the world.

Qantas has resumed seasonal flights direct from Perth to Rome

The leading Australian international carrier, Qantas, resumes seasonal flights direct from Perth to Rome for the second year running.  The flights will operate three days per week with the airline’s Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft until 3 October 2023, offering more than 22,000 seats between Australia and Italy over a four-month period.  The route remains the only direct flight between Australia and continental Europe offered by any airline. Customers travelling in Business class from Rome to Perth will be offered limited-edition Qantas amenity kits, launched in partnership with Tourism Western Australia, featuring the artwork of Western Australian Wongi artist Kevin Wilson.

The national carrier has also confirmed it will operate the service for a third year, with flights for 2024 to go on sale in early July. Qantas International CEO Cameron Wallace said the airline was pleased to be carrying Australians direct to Rome for another summer in Europe.

“Our Perth – Rome route was one of the most popular across our international network last year and bookings show that it’s shaping to be that way again,” said Mr Wallace.

“We also saw many customers using Rome as a gateway to continental Europe, connecting onwards with our network of partners, with Sicily, Athens and Barcelona being amongst the top destinations last year.

“The route is fantastic for tourism operators across Western Australia, not just because of the influx of visitors we’ve seen from Italy, but also because it promotes Perth as a stopover for Australians travelling to Europe from the east coast.

“One of the trends we’ve seen emerge post-COVID is that preference for direct flights is higher than ever. Strong customer demand for our long-haul international routes has given us the confidence to commit to a third season in 2024.”

Customers can connect from Rome to 16 destinations in Europe including Geneva, Nice and Madrid and 14 destinations within Italy including Milan and Venice. A “circle fare” also allows Qantas customers to fly into Rome and return to Australia from London on the one ticket.

In 2022, Italy was ranked as Western Australia’s 11th largest international market for visitors, up from 23rd largest in 2019.

Premier of Western Australia Roger Cook has welcomed the resumption of direct flights linking Perth and Rome, saying they have proven to a be a game-changer for the State’s economy.

“From keen travellers to Western Australians with strong family ties to Italy, all will welcome being able to step off at Perth Airport then set foot in the eternal city.  The resumption of what has proved to be a very popular flight has obvious economic and cultural benefits for our State.  Linking Perth and Rome with direct flights enables us to deliver on our strategy to diversify our economy and support jobs across a range of sectors, including tourism and hospitality.

This is further proof of our State’s reputation as the Western Gateway.”

Second big order from Air India announced that Paris Air Show....up to 290 Boeing jets...

Air India has confirmed its second large order at The Paris Air Show, by finalising a deal with Boeing' for up to 290 jets.

Boeing and Air India held a signing ceremony at the air show on Tuesday cementing the deal, which includes 190 737 MAXs, 20 787 Dreamliners and 10 777X jets plus options for 50 more  737 MAXs and 20 more 787 Dreamliners.  

A comprehensive set of aviation services will also enable Air India to sustainably expand its operations in South Asia's rapidly growing aviation market. Over the next 20 years, South Asia is expected to more than triple its in-service fleet from 700 to 2,300 aeroplanes to meet passenger demand.

Airbus expects India will need 2,210 new aircraft over the next 20 years while Boeing believes the nation will need more aircraft than that and the recent orders by IndiGo and Air India would certainly seem to indicate the demand is great. Whilst confidence is great, there are one of two in the aviation world that are predicting a less-than-rosy future. Potential trouble could include another pandemic, changes in Indian regulation that would require new aircraft to be built wholly in the country, and corruption. 

China Airlines orders 8 Boeing 787 Dreamliners jets

U.S. planemaker Boeing and China Airlines have finalized an order for eight 787-9 Dreamliners jets at the 2023 Paris Air Show, which follows  This firm order follows the airline's first-ever order for 16 787-9s announced last year. 

However, this latest news isn't actually a new addition to Boeing's backlog and finances,  it was previously posted to Boeing's Orders and Deliveries website as unidentified and for a discount, China Airlines agreed to delay the announcement until the Paris Air Show. 

China Airlines also becomes the newest 787-10 customer as it converts six 787-9s to the 787-10, the largest member of the 787 family, to add flexibility and capacity on its regional network as passenger demand continues to rise above pre-pandemic levels.

With this order, the carrier will introduce 24 super-efficient 787s over the next several years, strengthening the airline's existing global network. The 787 enables China Airlines to reduce fuel use and emissions by 20%, which will support the airline to meet its sustainability goals.

The 787 family is selling at the highest rate in its history, receiving more than 250 orders and commitments in the past six months.

Riyadh Air makes its international debut at the 54th Paris Air Show.

They say a  new chapter in air travel has arrived on the global stage today with the world-class, digitally-led airline Riyadh Air, making its international debut at the 54th bi-annual Paris Air Show. 

The carriers Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner in the unique Riyadh Air livery touched down after a stunning fly-over in the city of Riyadh for its first official reveal on Monday 12th June.  

This new airline from Saudi Arabia plans to fly to more than 100 destinations and has lofty ambitions to carry 100 million passengers by 2030. It wants to make Riyadh City a global hub for travel as well as encouraging visits to the Kingdom for business and leisure. 

Riyadh Air aims to bring a new level of attention to detail to the passenger experience and believes it has technology that will raise the bar for the industry. As a brand it wants to capture the heritage of the Kingdom whilst being modern and forward-thinking with the tagline, 'The Future Takes Flight'.    

The aircraft is on display at the show, allowing visitors to view the unique indigo aircraft livery up close. Its lavender colour is symbolic of the welcoming and hospitable nature of the people in the Kingdom, as well as being a natural plant that carpets Saudi Arabia during spring and the tail design captures the movement of canopy tents in the desert. 

Look inside the new Hawaiian Airlines Boeing 787 Dreamliner Cabins and new Leihōkū Suites

Hawaiian Airlines introduce new cabins and an elevated level of service on its forthcoming Boeing 787 Dreamliner fleet. 

Hawaiian Airlines, the leading airline and hometown carrier of Hawaiʻi’ has just introduced a whole new elevated standard of leisure travel, inspired by early Polynesian voyages, with the unveiling of its Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner interior and new class of premium service – the Leihōkū Suites.

Since 1929 Hawaiian Airlines has been the airline of choice for passengers to and from the islands and with the new Boeing 787s which is scheduled to start commercial service with the airline early next year, that reputation continues. 

Passengers will be able to experience a new cabin design with elements that evoke Hawaiʻi’s rich natural world through bold textures, island-inspired sunrise and sunset lighting and sinuous ocean and wind patterns.

The new 300-seat aircraft also will feature the heavenly Leihōkū premier class,  Leihōkū means garland of stars and showcases 34 suites that will envelop guests in a tranquil, elegant space with fully lie-flat seating, an 18-inch in-flight entertainment screen, personal outlets, wireless charging and direct aisle access. Set in a 1-2-1 configuration with doors, the suites can offer privacy or a shared experience, with combined double seats allowing couples to fall asleep while gazing at a starlit ceiling.

“The combination of our evocative cabin design and unparalleled service will make our 787 the most relaxing and enjoyable choice for travel to and from Hawaiʻi,” said Avi Mannis, chief marketing and communications officer at Hawaiian Airlines. “We take pride in sharing our home with our guests, and the design and details of this product truly reflect what it means to be the flagship carrier of the Hawaiian Islands.”

In developing its Leihōkū Suite, Hawaiian became the first airline to partner with Adient Aerospace – a joint venture between the Boeing Company and Adient, a world leader in automotive seats.

“It was evident from the beginning that Hawaiian Airlines is very passionate about its culture and branding, and making sure that this came through in the design language and in the passenger experience,” said Adient Aerospace CEO Tony Guy. “It is so rewarding to bring this vision collaboratively to life and see it realized in the delivered product.”

In Hawaiianʻs 787 Dreamliner Main Cabin, consisting of 266 Collins Aerospace Aspire seats with ergonomically contoured back and armrests, guests will enjoy a lightweight, modern design that maximizes seat space, offers more shoulder and hip room, and features a 12-inch seatback monitor with USB-A and USB-C charging ports.

New premium long-haul carrier set to start in September..........Himalaya Jet

A new airline could soon be taking to the skies in leased Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft to fly to Mumbai, Delhi and Kathmandu from London and Paris.

The plan is for Himalaya Jet, a company set up by the Gurung family, who co-own the Miss World contest, to start flights later this year, possibly in September.  Travel Trade Gazette reports the fledgling airline has an office at London Heathrow's Terminal 2 and another potential destination is Sydney, Australia. 

Gary Noakes at TTG writes that this proposed carrier follows hot on the heels of two other Indian start-up airlines, Flypop which will fly from London Stansted and has already sorted out its first aircraft and Hans Airways, which intends to operate between Birmingham and Amritsar.  

Other possible destinations listed on Himalaya Jet website include New York, Washington DC, Toronto, Zurich, Frankfurt, Madrid, Rome and Vienna. The new carrier aims to connect selected cities in Asia, Europe and North America with point-to-point premium long-haul full-service direct flights.  It claims the services between operational cities will both save time and be an estimated 30% cheaper than other airlines. 

If the plans come to fruition, the airline hopes to have a fleet of around 18 aircraft by the end of its third year, according to aviationa2z and although Himalaya Jet is set to start with Boeing 787 jets, it is also in talks to lease Airbus aircraft, possibly A330 or A350 jets from aircraft leasing companies.  

This could be an exciting time for fresh start-ups to shake the aviation industry, which is already climbing to near pre-pandemic levels of traffic and more people expressing desires to travel more widely than before. 

Although, starting a new airline is never easy, just ask Richard Branson. However, Himalaya Jet is not alone, according to various reports, the company is getting support from the StartupBoeing team from the US manufacturer.  The StartupBoeing team assists entrepreneurs in launching new airlines. From concept through launch, StartupBoeing offers guidance, review, analysis, data, resources, contacts, and referrals to qualified startup airlines.

Boeing is expanding its ecoDemonstrator flight-test programme

U.S. plane maker Boeing is expanding its ecoDemonstrator flight-test programme to further accelerate innovation for sustainability and safety. 

The company recently announced its 2023 plan to assess 19 technologies on the Boeing 777 ecoDemonstrator, while also adding "Explorer" aeroplanes that will focus tests on specific technologies.

The first ecoDemonstrator Explorer, a 787-10 Dreamliner, will conduct flight tests in June from Seattle to Tokyo, Singapore and Bangkok to demonstrate how coordinating navigation across global airspace jurisdictions can improve operational efficiency, which can reduce an aeroplane's fuel use and emissions by up to 10%. Utilizing today's onboard capabilities, Boeing and air navigation service providers (ANSPs) in the U.S., Japan, Singapore and Thailand will collectively sequence the airplane's routes to achieve the optimal flight path across multiple regions, factoring in conditions such as weather, air traffic and airspace closures. The airplane will fly on the highest available blend of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) at each location.

"To support our industry's goal for net zero carbon emissions by 2050, Boeing is expanding our ecoDemonstrator programme with Explorer airplanes to test even more sustainability-focused technologies," said Stan Deal, president and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes. "We continue to invest in innovation that reduces fuel use, emissions and noise on our products and to partner with governments and industry to make progress on sustainability during each phase of flight."

"The industry will need continued fleet renewal, efficiency gains, renewable energy carriers such as sustainable aviation fuel and advanced technology to meet the civil aviation industry's commitment to achieve net zero carbon emission by 2050," said Boeing Chief Sustainability Officer Chris Raymond. "Our initial Explorer testing in partnership with aviation stakeholders in four countries is a great example of how we can work together to optimize operational efficiency and reduce emissions."

In 2023, Boeing also will use its current flagship ecoDemonstrator airplane, a 777-200ER (Extended Range), to test 19 technologies including:

Sustainable wall panels in the cargo hold that are made of 40% recycled carbon fiber and 60% resin made from a bio-based feedstock

A fiber optic fuel quantity sensor compatible with 100% SAF

An Electronic Flight Bag application featuring Smart Airport Maps, a component of Jeppesen FliteDeck Pro, which reduces operational costs and supports safe taxi operations with the depiction of contextual airport data

For all flight tests, the airplane will fly on the highest available blend of SAF locally

Since its initial flights in 2012, the Boeing ecoDemonstrator programme has accelerated innovation by taking new technologies out of the lab and testing them in an operational environment. Including the 2023 plan, the programme will have tested about 250 technologies to help decarbonize aviation, improve operational efficiency and enhance safety and the passenger experience. Approximately a third of tested technologies have progressed onto Boeing's products and services.

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More information about the 2023 ecoDemonstrator and previous ecoDemonstrator airplanes is available at boeing.com/ecoDemonstrator

Azerbaijan Airlines is finalizing deal for 8 Boeing 787 Dreamliner jets

Boeing and Azerbaijan Airlines are finalizing a deal for eight Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner jets to help the carrier open up new routes from Azerbaijan and boost capacity for inbound tourism. 

Jahangir Asgarov, president of Azerbaijan Airlines, and Stan Deal, president and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes signed the deal at the airline's hub in Baku. 

"The successful development of the country's civil aviation has become possible thanks to the continuous support and attention of the President of Azerbaijan, Ilham Aliyev. The signing of a contract with Boeing for the purchase of modern wide-body Boeing 787 Dreamliners is an important step in modernizing the fleet and increasing the level of AZAL air transportation," said Asgarov.

"The 787 has helped position Azerbaijan Airlines as the leading carrier across Central Asia, with the airplane's flexibility and capability opening Azerbaijan up to increased tourism and economic growth," said Deal. "For more than 20 years we have enjoyed a tremendous partnership with Azerbaijan Airlines and this order for Dreamliners is a testament to the strength of our product family and the relationship between our companies."

The 787-8's range reaches up to 13,530 km in a typical two-class configuration, enabling Azerbaijan Airlines to grow its network across Europe, Asia and beyond. 

Azerbaijan Airlines is one of the largest carriers in Central Asia, serving 40 destinations across 25 countries, with a fleet that includes Boeing 757, 767 and 787 jets.

Mexico sells Presidential 787 Jet to Tajikistan for $98 million.

The Mexican Government has finally sold off its Presidential Boeing 787 jet for approximately $92 million, despite it costing the country $200 million when it was new.

Mexico’s president Andrés Manuel López Obrador had refused to use the jet, claiming it was too expensive and luxurious, since he took office in December 2018. Now, after nearly 4.5 years of trying to, the president confirmed the country had sold the jet to Tajikistan. 

"After a long time, we managed to sell the plane,” López Obrador commented, “We are happy. We are going to use the money from selling the plane to build two hospitals.” 

The president had been looking to offload the aircraft for some time as it cost almost the same to keep the plane grounded as it would to use the aircraft for official business. 

Norse Atlantic Airways starts flights between New York and Paris

Norse Atlantic announces first flight from New York, JFK to Paris with daily service.

From New York JFK, the airline now serves five European destinations this summer, including Rome, Paris, Berlin, Oslo and London.

In total Norse Atlantic will operate 13 routes between the US and Europe this summer.

              Norse Atlantic Airways has launched transatlantic flights between Paris, Charles de Gaulle and New York JFK on Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft.

The launch of this route marks Norse Atlantic’s entry into yet another major international market as the airline continues to provide comfortable and budget-friendly travel options for long-haul flights.

“We are delighted to offer cost-effective travel and increased choices for our passengers between the vibrant cities of Paris and New York. This new route connecting the beautiful cities will further boost transatlantic travel benefiting local tourism and businesses on both sides of the Atlantic. With the addition of our latest route to Paris, our airline now offers a total of five European destinations from New York, JFK this summer, including Rome, Berlin, Oslo and London,” said Bjorn Tore Larsen, CEO of Norse Atlantic Airways.

Ethiopian to expand its service to Switzerland with new flight to Zürich

Ethiopian Airlines, Africa’s leading carrier has confirmed it will add Zürich to its expanding global network, with thrice-weekly flights. The first flight from Addis Ababa to Zürich will take off on 31 October 2022, operated with the ultra-modern Boeing 787 Dreamliner.

Zürich will be Ethiopian Airlines' second destination in Switzerland next to Geneva, and its 19th gateway to Europe. The city is the financial and industrial centre of Switzerland and hosts the headquarters of a number of international organizations including football's governing body FIFA.

Commenting on the launch of the new flight, Ethiopian Airlines Group CEO Mesfin Tasew said, “We are glad to open a new route connecting the financial capital of Switzerland, Zürich with over 130 destinations of Ethiopian Airlines via Africa’s political capital, Addis Ababa. The new flight will expand our presence in Switzerland and Europe at large and provide enhanced air connectivity between Switzerland and Ethiopia. The new service will also facilitate diplomatic and socioeconomic relations not only between Ethiopia and Switzerland but also between Africa and Europe. As a pan-African carrier, we are committed to further expand our global network and connect Africa with the rest of the word better than ever before.”

Currently, Ethiopian Airlines flies to Geneva three times a week, which will increase to four weekly flights by end of October. With the launch of services to Zürich, Ethiopian Airlines flights to Switzerland will increase to seven per week.   

Ethiopian Airlines is the fastest growing Airline in Africa. In its seventy-five-plus years of operation, Ethiopian has become one of the continent’s leading carriers, unrivalled in efficiency and operational success. Ethiopian commands the lion’s share of the Pan African passenger and cargo network operating the youngest and most modern fleet to more than 130 international passenger and cargo destinations across five continents. Ethiopian’s fleet includes ultra-modern and environmentally friendly aircraft such as Airbus A350, Boeing 787-8, Boeing 787-9, Boeing 777-300ER, Boeing 777-200LR, Boeing 777-200, Boeing 737-800, Boeing 737-8, Freighter, Bombardier Dash 8-400 double cabin with an average fleet age of seven years. In fact, Ethiopian is the first airline in Africa to own and operate these aircraft.

Last week the carrier Ethiopian Airlines and Boeing celebrated the 10th anniversary of the first 787 Dreamliner delivery to the African carrier. Over the past decade, Ethiopian Airlines has utilized the outstanding capabilities of the 787 to sustainably grow its long-haul network across the world, making its hub in Addis Ababa one of the leading gateways for international travel in Africa. Ethiopian Airlines was the first airline on the continent to take delivery of the 787 and today operates a combined fleet of twenty-seven 787-8s and 787-9s that play an integral role in its long-haul fleet.

“We are glad to mark a decade since we ushered in the first 787 Dreamliner into Africa, building on our pioneering role in African aviation,” said Mesfin Tasew “The 787 has been instrumental in expanding our long and medium-haul flights and redefining on-board comfort for our passengers' thanks to its advanced technology and remarkable cabin features.”

China Airlines signs order for up to 24 Boeing 787 Dreamliners

Photo Boeing

Boeing and China Airlines announced they have finalized an order for up to 24 787 Dreamliners, as the carrier invests in the fuel-efficient widebody to expand passenger and cargo operations. The deal includes a firm order for 16 of the longest range 787-9 with options for eight additional jets, a landmark purchase that will enable the airline to meet its long-term sustainability goals.

"We are excited to introduce the 787-9 Dreamliner into our operations as we continue to upgrade our fleet with more modern, fuel-efficient aeroplanes. Adding the state-of-the-art 787 will help us reduce carbon emissions, while also providing our customers with unmatched levels of comfort," said China Airlines Chairman Hsieh Su-Chien. "Our continuous investment in fleet modernization is the cornerstone of our sustainability efforts. The 787's best-in-class efficiency and low operating costs will allow us to expand our network for years to come."

The best-selling model of the Dreamliner family, the 787-9 will allow China Airlines to operate with the lowest trip cost among medium-sized widebodies while reducing fuel use and emissions by up to 25% compared to the aeroplanes it replaces. Since entering service in 2011, the 787 family's fuel efficiency, flexibility and range have enabled airlines to open more than 325 new nonstop routes and reduce carbon emissions by 80 billion pounds.

Boeing 787-8 deliveries resume today for American Airlines

Today, August 10th, American Airlines received its first Boeing 787-8 aircraft this year and it's first since April 2021. The aircraft, with U.S. Registration No. N880BJ, was delivered from Charleston, South Carolina, and is expected to enter commercial service in the coming weeks. Including this delivery, American currently has 47 active 787 family aircraft in its fleet with an additional 42 on order. "We appreciate the work done by the Federal Aviation Administration and Boeing during the review process." the airline said in a statement.