Northwest Airlines orders up to 68 Boeing 787 Dreamliners

Northwest Airlines has placed an order for up to 68 Boeing 787 Dreamliners.

The order includes firm purchases of 18 787-8s worth, approximately $2.2 billion at list prices, plus options and purchase rights for 50 additional Dreamliners. Six airplanes will be delivered each year during 2008, 2009, and 2010. With its initial delivery in August 2008, Northwest will be the first North American carrier operating  the 787.

"The Boeing 787 provides Northwest Airlines with a new-generation, long-range aircraft that will allow us to tailor our growing international route system to best address our customers' travel needs," said Doug Steenland, Northwest Airlines president and chief executive officer.

The 787's size, range, speed and operating economics make it a perfect match for Northwest's routes and fleet plans. The airplane will be 50 percent more fuel efficient per trip than the airline's current fleet of 747-200s and DC-10-30s and will substantially reduce operating and maintenance costs.

"We're thrilled to be on the Northwest team," said Alan Mulally, president and chief executive officer of Boeing Commercial Airplanes. "We share the airline's vision for a world of air travel where passengers can choose to go non-stop directly to their destination, safely, comfortably and affordably. Northwest's business plan will take full advantage of the tremendous range, speed, passenger comfort and economic capabilities of the 787. We look forward to working closely with the people of Northwest Airlines to bring the 787 into service."

Northwest becomes a member of the 787 Launch Team that now includes 20 airlines from around the world. Orders and commitments for the 787 since its launch last year total 255.

See other recent news regarding: Boeing, Travel News Asia, Northwest Airlines, Dreamliner, 787