The Dubai Airshow kicked off on Monday with some high-profile orders for Boeing’s 787 Dreamliner. The Arlington, Va.-based aircraft manufacturer secured a series of new orders from existing customers while also adding a new operator of the type.
Leading the headlines on the airshow’s first day, Boeing added over 40 aircraft to its 787 order book. In addition, the manufacturer also received an order from Emirates for 55 777-9 and 35 777-8 aircraft.
Flydubai: A New 787 Operator
Flydubai made a major boost to the 787 program by placing a firm order for 30 787-9 Dreamliners. This marks the first time that Flydubai has chosen widebody aircraft, allowing the airline to expand its fleet and offer a broader network.
Right now, Flydubai only operates 737 aircraft on short and medium-haul routes. First Squawk reports that Flydubai’s 787 order is part of a broader deal with Emirates to transfer planned orders in favor of the 777.
Royal Jordanian Adds to its 787 Order Book
Royal Jordanian, the national flag carrier of Jordan, added four more 787-9s to its existing order, bringing the total number of Dreamliners on order to six. With seven 787s in its fleet, Royal Jordanian was the first Middle East airline to receive the aircraft in 2014.
“This order for additional 787s is a testament to Royal Jordanian’s longstanding commitment to the market-leading capabilities of the Dreamliner,” said Stan Deal, president and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes in a press release. “We are confident Royal Jordanian will profitably expand its network and operate a more sustainable fleet with these new fuel-efficient jets.”
Royal Air Maroc Positions for Casablanca Expansion
As reported by AirlineGeeks last week, Royal Air Maroc is looking to turn its hub in Casablanca into a global connection point. Going along with this strategy, the airline is also expanding its fleet.
The national flag carrier of Morocco reaffirmed its growth plans by placing a repeat order for two 787-9 Dreamliners. Having received its first 787 in 2014, the North African carrier currently has nine 787-8 and 787-9 aircraft.
Emirates Still Committing to 787
In addition to these individual orders, Dubai-based Emirates announced an update to its previous order for the 787. The airline modified its Dreamliner order book, reflecting a purchase of five more 787 jets while also converting 30 787-9s to 20 787-8 and 10 787-10 aircraft. This puts Emirates’ backlog for 787s at 35 frames.
