Etihad Airways has signed a $2.8bn contract with Boeing to buy ten 787-9 Dreamliners and a pair of 777 Freighters.

Etihad Airways has an order for 41 787s, which are scheduled for delivery from 2014 to 2019, as well as options and purchase rights for a further 25 787s.

The current order increases the company’s current Boeing 777 backlog to 12 planes, including ten previously ordered 777-300ERs (extended range).

The two additional 777 Freighters will increase Etihad Airways’ fleet of 777s to 21 planes including 18 passenger aircraft and three freighters.

The cargo fleet also includes two A300-600Fs, two A330-200Fs and two MD11Fs.

Etihad Airways CEO James Hogan said: "Our decision to expand our Dreamliner fleet is testimony to Etihad’s commitment to operating one of the youngest and most fuel-efficient fleets in the skies.

"Both the Boeing 787 Dreamliner and the 777 Freighter offer highly attractive operating economics and will facilitate our global expansion plans by allowing us to transport passengers and cargo into new global markets from our hub in Abu Dhabi."

Boeing Commercial Airplanes president and CEO Jim Albaugh said: "In less than ten years Etihad Airways has established an enviable track record and has earned global recognition for its focus on providing its customers with a quality product.

"We are extremely proud of our partnership with Etihad Airways and are confident the 787 Dreamliner and the 777 Freighter will make valuable contributions to Etihad’s growth plans and service for its passenger and freight customers."

The 787-9 Dreamliners offers 250 to 290 seats and have a range capability of up to 8,500nm (15,750km).

The twin-engine 777 freighter features the lowest trip cost of any large freighter, with high-cargo density and a 10ft (3.1m) interior height capability that complements the popular 747 Freighter family.

The 777 accommodates from 301 to 368 passengers in a three-class configuration and has a range capability of up to 9,395nm (17,395km).