Boeing will supply 18 new wide-body jets to Air Canada as that carrier invests to modernize and expand its fleet, as well as to reduce its carbon footprint while it extends its global route network. Neither the OEM nor its customer offered an estimate of the contract value, though it could be worth nearly $6.1 billion at list prices for Boeing’s 787-10 Dreamliner.
The 787 Dreamliner is a twin-engine, long-range wide-body jet with carrying capacity for 210 to 330 passengers. It’s offered in three size variants, the largest of which is the 787-10 that Air Canada has selected.
In addition to the commitment to 18 new jets, Air Canada contracted for options to purchase 12 more of the same model.
The 787-10 has a range of 6,330 nautical miles, or 11,730 km, and carries up to 336 passengers. Currently Air Canada operates 38 787s, including eight 787-8s and 30 787-9s.
"Our experience shows customers greatly enjoy flying on the Dreamliner, so we are pleased to offer them a larger version of this popular aircraft, which will premiere a new, state-of-the-art interior cabin design,” observed Air Canada president and CEO Michael Rousseau. “As importantly, the 787 is highly fuel efficient and will generate operational savings as well as support our sustainability goals of reducing emissions."
Boeing Commercial Airplanes president and CEO noted that the new jets “will provide Air Canada with greater flexibility and commonality across its expansive network, connecting Canadians to destinations around the world."
