Saudia signs deal for 49 787s

This agreement is part of a plan to purchase up to 121 787 Dreamliners in what will be the fifth-largest commercial order by value in Boeing’s history

The airline currently operates more than 50 Boeing airplanes on its long-haul network. — Supplied photo

Issac John

Published: Tue 14 Mar 2023, 6:57 PM

Boeing and Saudi Arabian Airlines (Saudia) announced on Tuesday that the national flag carrier will grow its long-haul fleet with the selection of up to 49 787 Dreamliners.

Saudia said it is set to purchase 39 787s, with a further 10 options, utilizing the outstanding efficiency, range and flexibility of the Dreamliner to sustainably grow its global operation. The agreement will include both 787-9 and 787-10 models.

This agreement is part of a plan to purchase up to 121 787 Dreamliners in what will be the fifth-largest commercial order by value in Boeing’s history. This will support the country’s goal of serving 330 million passengers and attracting 100 million visitors annually by 2030, a Saudia statement said.

“Saudia continues its expansion efforts in all aspects of the airline; whether it’s introducing new destinations or increasing the aircraft fleet,” 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 of bringing the world to the kingdom”.

The airline 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. The additional 787s complement Saudia’s existing fleet, enabling it to effectively harness the value of the 777 and 787 families.

“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.

— issacjohn@khaleejtimes.com