SAN FRANCISCO, March 14 (Xinhua) -- Boeing on Tuesday announced that Saudi Arabian Airlines (Saudia) will grow its long-haul fleet with the selection of up to 49 787 Dreamliners.
Saudia is set to purchase 39 787s, with a further 10 options, to sustainably grow its global operation. The agreement will include both 787-9 and 787-10 models, the announcement said.
"Saudia continues its expansion efforts in all aspects of the airline; whether it's introducing new destinations or increasing the aircraft fleet," said Ibrahim Al-Omar, director general of Saudia Group. "The agreement with Boeing delivers on this commitment and the newly added aircraft will further enable Saudia to fulfill its strategic objective."
Saudia currently operates more than 50 Boeing airplanes on its long-haul network, including the 777-300ER (Extended Range) and 787-9 and 787-10 Dreamliner, Boeing said.
"Adding to its 787 Dreamliner fleet will enable Saudia to expand its long-haul service with outstanding range, capacity and efficiency," said Stan Deal, president and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes. "After more than 75 years of partnership, we are honored by Saudia's confidence in Boeing products and will continue to support Saudi Arabia's goal to expand sustainable air travel."
Since revenue service began in 2011, the 787 family has launched more than 350 new nonstop routes around the world, including about 50 new routes since 2020, according to Boeing. ■
