Boeing and Air New Zealand have announced the airline plans to add the largest 787 Dreamliner model to its world-class fleet with a commitment to buy eight 787-10 airplanes valued at $2.7 billion at list prices.
The carrier, known for its global network and long-range operations, says the 787-10 complements its current 787-9 and 777 fleet by offering more seats and greater efficiency to grow its business.
Said Air New Zealand Chief Executive Officer Christopher Luxon: "This is a hugely important decision for our airline. With the 787-10 offering around 15% more space for both customers and cargo than the 787-9, this investment creates the platform for our future strategic direction and opens up new opportunities to grow.
"The 787-10 is longer and even more fuel efficient. However, the game changer for us has been that by working closely with Boeing, we've ensured the 787-10 will meet our network needs, including the ability to fly missions similar to our current 777-200 fleet."
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The 787-10 is the largest member of the super-efficient and passenger-pleasing Dreamliner family.
At 224 feet long (68 meters), the 787-10 can serve up to 330 passengers in a standard two-class configuration, about 40 more than the 787-9 airplane.
Powered by a suite of new technologies and a revolutionary design, the 787-10 set a new benchmark for fuel efficiency and operating economics when it entered commercial service last year.
The airplane allows operators to achieve 25% better fuel efficiency per seat compared to the previous airplanes.
Air New Zealand was a global launch customer for the 787-9 and today already operates 13 of the Dreamliner variant.
Air New Zealand also utilizes a number of Boeing Global Services solutions, including Airplane Health Management.
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