Colombia’s flagship carrier Avianca Airlines has placed a $620m firm order with Boeing for three 787 Dreamliners as part of its expansion strategy.
This takes the airline’s total 787 orders to 15, which is estimated to be $3.1bn.
Avianca became the first South American carrier to order the aircraft after signing up for 12 Dreamliners in 2007.
Avianca Airlines CEO Fabio Villegas said that the addition of more 787s was in line with the company’s expansion and service improvement strategy.
"The range and efficiency of the aeroplane make it a great fit into our overall fleet plans, and the interior will bring a unique flying experience to our passengers that only Avianca can provide," Villegas said.
Made of lightweight composite materials instead of aluminium in the fuselage and wings, the 787 features improved aerodynamics and advanced engine technology. According to Boeing, it uses 20% less fuel and is cheaper to maintain than rival aircraft in the segment.
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By GlobalDataCapable of flying on long-haul routes, the 787 is the first mid-size, twin-engine jet airliner.
Boeing Commercial Airplanes Latin America, Caribbean and Africa sales vice president Van Rex Gallard said that the 787’s operating economics and passenger appeal would enable Avianca to continue to position itself as a preferred carrier and grow in the region.
Since the inception of the 787 Dreamliner programme in April 2004, Boeing has logged more than 800 firm orders from 58 customers worldwide.
Avianca Airlines is a part of AviancaTaca Holding, which operates a fleet of more than 140 short, medium and long-haul aircraft flying to more than 100 destinations in the Americas and Europe.
Image: With the latest order, Avianca Airlines’ total 787 order count reaches 15. Photo: courtesy of Boeing.
