© Boeing
Both Air Canada and Virgin Atlantic have submitted large orders to Boeing for the aircraft manufacturer’s fuel-efficient 787 Dreamliner.
The Canadian flag carrier became the largest North American Dreamliner patron yesterday (Tuesday, April 24) when it exercised options for 23 jets, bringing its total order to 37, for delivery from 2010.
UK-based Virgin Atlantic also purchased 15 Dreamliners yesterday, with options for a further eight, and purchase rights for an additional 20 – the largest order yet for the new aircraft from a European carrier.
Sir Richard Branson, the founder of the Virgin Group, which also includes Australia’s Virgin Blue and the forthcoming Virgin America, expects to receive the jets from 2011 onwards, and could pay as much as $8 billion if all options are exercised.
The entrepreneur is an outspoken advocate of environmentally friendly initiatives and he cited the Dreamliner’s green credentials as one of the main incentives for making the order.
“The 787 Dreamliner symbolizes the environmentally-kinder aircraft of the future – cleaner, quieter, lighter, and truly the best experience in the air,” said the Virgin Atlantic Chairman.
Montie Brewer, President and Chief Executive of Air Canada, was also impressed with the Boeing’s efficiency.
“The Boeing 787 aircraft features better operational performance in terms of speed and flight range, providing us with the ability to serve new markets that could not be previously served in an efficient manner,” he said.
Air Canada’s revised agreement with Boeing could see its order rise to 60 Dreamliners, should it exercise its new options. In turn, the carrier has withdrawn an order for two new Boeing 777s, though an order for an additional 16 is still in the pipeline.
© Adfero Ltd
