Xiamen Airlines Finalizes Order for 6 Boeing Dreamliners

Xiamen Airlines have finalized an order for six Boeing 787-8s. The order is valued at $1.3 billion at list prices.

Xiamen Airlines' expanding international network currently focuses on southeast and northeast Asia. With the introduction of the 787 Dreamliners beginning in 2014, the airline plans to launch new long-haul routes from Fujian to Europe, North America and Australia.

"Adding 787s to our all-Boeing fleet is a strategic decision to facilitate our international expansion plans," said Che Shanglun, president and CEO of Xiamen Airlines. "The range and efficiency of the 787 makes it an ideal fit in our new, non-stop international routes."

Xiamen Airlines currently operates a fleet of 97 airplanes, including 17 737-700s, 74 737-800s and six 757-200s.

The flight network is comprised of 218 domestic routes and 26 international and regional routes.

The airline will take delivery of its 100th Boeing airplane in November 2013.

Founded in 1984, Xiamen Airlines is headquartered in the coastal city of Xiamen in the province of Fujian. The area boasts a thriving and diverse industrial economy as well as a growing tourism market.