Air New Zealand Orders Two More Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners

Air New Zealand has finalized an order with Boeing for two additional 787-9 Dreamliners, valued at US$514 million at current list prices.

The order, booked in 2014, comes six months after Air New Zealand celebrated the first 787-9 delivery in July.

The order will eventually increase the airline's fleet to a total of 12 787-9s, which will operate alongside 15 777-200ERs (Extended Range) and 777-300ERs.

"The entry into service program has gone very smoothly and we've been incredibly pleased with the aircraft's performance," said Christopher Luxon, chief executive officer, Air New Zealand. "These new 787-9 Dreamliners will provide us with additional flexibility as we move forward with our growth plans."

Air New Zealand was the launch customer of the 787-9 and currently operates three of the aircraft in its fleet. Including this latest order, the airline now has nine unfilled 787-9s on order.

The 787-9 complements and extends the 787 family, offering airlines the ability to grow routes opened with the 787-8. With the fuselage stretched by 20 feet (6 meters), the 787-9 can fly up to 40 more passengers an additional 450 nautical miles (830 kilometers).

The 787-9 leverages the design of the 787-8, offering features such as large, dimmable windows, large stow bins, modern LED lighting, higher humidity, a lower cabin altitude, cleaner air and a smoother ride.

"Air New Zealand was the first airline in the world to take delivery of a 787-9 and one of the first to recognize the synergies of operating both the 787 and 777. The order shows their confidence in our long-haul products," said Dinesh Keskar, senior vice president, Asia Pacific and India Sales, Boeing Commercial Airplanes. "With its new aircraft and superior passenger experience, it is no surprise Air New Zealand was voted Airline of the Year by Airlineratings.com for the second year in a row."

To date, 58 customers around the world have ordered 1,071 787s.