New multi-billion dollar investment will boost the Air NZ fleet from 2022.
Air New Zealand has just announced a “significant investment in is international network and customer experience,” with a commitment to purchase eight Boeing 787-10 Dreamliner aircraft.
To be powered by GE Aviation GEnx-1B engines, the 787-10s will complement Air NZ’s existing fleet of 13 787-9s. “The 787-10 is longer and even more fuel efficient,” said the airline’s CEO Christopher Luxon. “
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,” he said.
The 787-10 will offer about 15% more space for passengers and cargo than the 787-9. “This investment creates the platform for our future strategic direction and opens up new opportunities to grow,” Luxon said.
As well as the eight orders announced today the agreement includes options for a further 12 787s. The new long-haul aircraft will replace Air NZ’s existing 777-200 fleet which will be phased out by 2025.
More details in today’s issue of Travel Daily.