Air Berlin signals long haul intent with Dreamliner order
Air Berlin has ordered 25 Boeing 787-8 new generation ‘Dreamliner’ aircraft worth $4 billion to act as the cornerstone of its long haul fleet.
Europe’s third largest low fare carrier will add long haul destinations with the 787.
The order is the single largest placed by any European carrier and brings the total number of 787s ordered worldwide to 677.
On top of the 25 orders, Air Berlin is securing 10 options and 15 purchase rights for additional 787s.
The airline’s CEO Joachim Hunold said: “With this order, we want to secure the long-term future of the Air Berlin Group’s long-haul capability.”
He emphasised that the order was primarily a future fleet replacement
exercise.
“The 787 is perfectly suited for our new long-haul services,” he said. “It is hands-down the best aircraft to deliver the optimum combination of fuel efficiency, environmental performance and passenger comfort that we need to successfully grow our business and deliver a superior product for our customers. Passengers will fall in love with this airplane.
“The 787’s many ground-breaking innovations make it a powerful tool for profitability.”
The first 787 is due for delivery to airlines from May 2008. Including Air Berlin, 47 customers have ordered 677 787s.
Virgin Atlantic is tipped as another purchaser of the 787.
The model uses 20% less fuel per passenger than similarly sized aircraft, Boeing claims.
by Phil Davies
Phil Davies
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