Saudi Arabian Airlines has announced it will buy up to 49 Boeing 787 Dreamliners as it looks to expand its fleet.
Boeing and SAUDIA announced expansion of the national carrier’s long-haul fleet on Tuesday.
The airline is set to purchase 39 787s, with a further 10 options as it expands globally.
SAUDIA buys Boeing 787 Dreamliners
The agreement will include both 787-9 and 787-10 models.
This agreement is part of Saudi Arabia’s wider strategic plan to transform the country into a global aviation hub.
New airline Riyadh Air also announced it would acquire up to 72 Dreamliners from Boeing.
In total, Saudi Arabian carriers announced their intent to purchase up to 121 787 Dreamliners in what will be the fifth largest commercial order by value in Boeing’s history.
This will support the country’s goal of serving 330 million passengers and attracting 100m visitors annually by 2030.
Ibrahim Al-Omar, Director General of SAUDIA Group, said: “SAUDIA continues its expansion efforts in all aspects of the airline; whether it’s introducing new destinations or increasing the aircraft fleet.
“The agreement with Boeing delivers on this commitment and the newly added aircraft will further enable SAUDIA to fulfil its strategic objective of bringing the world to the Kingdom”.
The airline currently operates more than 50 Boeing airplanes on its long-haul network, including the 777-300ER (Extended Range) and 787-9 and 787-10 Dreamliner.
The additional 787s complement its existing fleet, enabling it to effectively harness the value of the 777 and 787 families.
Stan Deal, president and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes, said: “Adding to its 787 Dreamliner fleet will enable SAUDIA to expand its long-haul service with outstanding range, capacity and efficiency.
“After more than 75 years of partnership, we are honoured by SAUDIA’s confidence in Boeing products and will continue to support Saudi Arabia’s goal to expand sustainable air travel.”
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