SAUDIA plans to expand its long-haul fleet with up to 49 Boeing 787 Dreamliners.

TOPICS:

Posted By: Marcel van Leeuwen March 14, 2023

  • Saudi Arabia’s flag carrier will acquire 39 fuel-efficient 787-9 and 787-10 planes. 
  • The announcement, which includes options for ten more planes, is part of Saudi Arabia’s larger ambition to become a worldwide aviation center.

Boeing and Saudi Arabian Airlines announced today that the national flag carrier will add up to 49 787 Dreamliners to its fleet. SAUDIA intends to purchase 39 787s, with an additional ten options, leveraging the Dreamliner’s exceptional efficiency, range, and flexibility to sustainably grow its global operation. The deal will cover both the 787-9 and the 787-10 variants.

This arrangement is part of Saudi Arabia’s larger strategic ambition to make the country a worldwide aviation hub. Saudi Arabian airlines have stated their intention to purchase up to 121 787 Dreamliners, making this the fifth largest commercial order by value in Boeing’s history. Contributing to the country’s objective of serving 330 million passengers and attracting 100 million visitors per year by 2030.

“SAUDIA Group continues to expand in all parts of the airline, whether it’s launching new destinations or extending the aircraft fleet,” His Excellency Engr. Ibrahim Al-Omar, Director General of SAUDIA Group, said. “The agreement with Boeing delivers on this commitment and the newly acquired aircraft will further assist SAUDIA to realize its strategic objective of bringing the world to the Kingdom”.

SAUDIA presently runs over 50 Boeing jets on its long-distance network, including the 777-300ER (Extended Range), 787-9, and 787-10 Dreamliners. The additional 787s will supplement SAUDIA’s existing fleet, allowing it to fully capitalize on the value of the 777 and 787 families.

“With expanding its 787 Dreamliner fleet, SAUDIA will be able to increase its long-haul service with exceptional range, capacity, and efficiency,” Stan Deal, president and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes, said. “We are honored by SAUDIA’s confidence in Boeing products after more than 75 years of relationship and will continue to support Saudi Arabia’s aim of expanding sustainable air travel.”

When commercial service began in 2011, the 787 family has introduced over 350 new nonstop routes throughout the world, with approximately 50 new routes added since 2020. When compared to the planes it replaces, the Dreamliner reduces fuel consumption and emissions by 25%.

Related Articles