SAUDIA to grow long-haul fleet with up to 49 Boeing 787 Dreamliners
March 16, 2023
Boeing and Saudi Arabian Airlines (SAUDIA) announced the national flag-carrier will grow its long-haul fleet with the selection of up to 49 787 Dreamliners. SAUDIA is set to purchase 39 787s, with a further 10 options, utilizing the outstanding efficiency, range and flexibility of the Dreamliner to sustainably grow its global operation. The agreement will include both 787-9 and 787-10 models.
The 787 Dreamliner is manufactured in Charleston, SC.
This agreement is part of Saudi Arabia’s wider strategic plan to transform the country into a global aviation hub. In total, Saudi Arabian carriers announced today 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 100 million visitors annually by 2030.
“This decision by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to purchase Boeing 787s, manufactured in South Carolina to start Riyadh Air and support Saudia Airlines, is a game changer in so many ways. It solidifies Boeing’s presence in Charleston for years to come, and validates the quality of the South Carolina workforce. Boeing has been a great corporate citizen for the people of South Carolina,” said U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham.
SAUDIA 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 SAUDIA’s existing fleet, enabling it to effectively harness the value of the 777 and 787 families.
“I want to congratulate Boeing and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia on finalizing one of the largest commercial agreements in the history of the U.S.-Saudi partnership. Today’s announcement will deliver world-class passenger aircraft to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and power economic growth and job creation in both countries,” said U.S. Secretary of Commerce, Gina Raimondo.
Since revenue service began in 2011, the 787 family has launched more than 350 new nonstop routes around the world, including about 50 new routes since 2020. The Dreamliner reduces fuel use and emissions by 25% compared to the airplanes it replaces.
As a leading global aerospace company, Boeing develops, manufactures and services commercial airplanes, defense products and space systems for customers in more than 150 countries. As a top U.S. exporter, the company leverages the talents of a global supplier base to advance economic opportunity, sustainability and community impact. Boeing’s diverse team is committed to innovating for the future, leading with sustainability, and cultivating a culture based on the company’s core values of safety, quality and integrity. Join our team and find your purpose at boeing.com/careers.
