Boeing

Boeing has signed an order with El Al Israel Airlines for up to nine 787 Dreamliners, valued at more than $2.2bn.

El Al will also lease six 787s from independent leasing companies.

The airline seeks to replace its existing long-haul fleet, increase capacity and provide greater route flexibility to and from its hub at Ben Gurion Airport in Tel Aviv.

El Al president and CEO David Maimon said:"These aircraft are the latest and most advanced in the world, and are efficient and economical.

"The addition of 787s to the El Al fleet will enable it to grow its route structure, while providing more range and capacity with exceptional passenger comfort."

"I am convinced that this move is a great opportunity to meet the high standard expected of us and continue the momentum in El Al’s focus to provide our customer with maximum comfort, the newest and best technology and deliver a high standard of service on-board."

El Al placed its first order of Boeing aircraft in 1961 and has since been an all-Boeing carrier. It currently operates a fleet of 22 737s, seven 747s, seven 767s and six 777s.

Boeing commercial airplanes president and CEO Ray Conner said: "The addition of 787s to the El Al fleet will enable it to grow its route structure, while providing more range and capacity with exceptional passenger comfort."

Last week, Boeing finalised a $5bn deal with low-cost carrier Norwegian for 19 787-9 Dreamliners, marking the largest single order for 787-9s from a European airline. The order also includes options for ten more 787-9s.

Image: Boeing signed an order with El Al Israel Airlines for up to nine 787 Dreamliners, valued at more than $2.2bn. Photo: courtesy of Boeing.