Xiamen Airlines, a subsidiary of China Southern Airlines, has finalised a firm order with Boeing for six 787-8s in order to expand its long-haul international service to the US and Europe in 2014.
Valued $1.3bn at list prices, the order was originally announced by Xiamen Airlines in May 2011.
China Southern Airlines had signed a letter of intent (LoI) in 2011 for the six aircraft; however, the deal was awaiting approval from the Chinese Government.
Xiamen Airlines president and CEO Che Shanglun said adding 787s to the airline’s all-Boeing fleet is a strategic decision to facilitate its international expansion plans.
"The range and efficiency of the 787 makes it an ideal fit in our new, non-stop international routes," Shanglun said.
Boeing Commercial Airplanes Northeast Asia Sales vice-president Ihssane Mounir said that the 787s will further strengthen Xiamen Airlines’ network, providing its customers with more travel options.
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By GlobalDataXiamen Airlines is scheduled to receive the first 787 in July 2014 and it plans to launch new long-haul routes from Fujian to Europe, North America and Australia.
Made primarily of carbon composites, the lighter weight 787 features improved aerodynamics and advanced engine technology, and according to Boeing, it uses 20% less fuel compared with rival aircraft in the segment.
Currently, Xiamen Airlines’ expanding international network focuses on south-east and north-east Asia.
The carrier currently operates an all-Boeing fleet of 97 aeroplanes including 17 737-700s, 74 737-800s and six 757-200s, which fly to 218 domestic routes and 26 international and regional routes.
The airline is set to receive its 100th Boeing aircraft in November this year.
Image: Xiamen Airlines is scheduled to receive the first 787 in July 2014. Photo: courtesy of Boeing.
