At the 2019 Dubai Airshow Sunday, Boeing and Biman Bangladesh Airlines announced a firm order for two Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners worth $585M at list prices.
In an exciting announcement at the 2019 Dubai Airshow Boeing and Biman Bangladesh Airlines (Biman) announced the order of two Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners. Biman currently operates an all-Boeing jet fleet, including four 787-8 Dreamliners. The larger long-range 787-9 variant will allow the Bangladesh national flag carrier to expand its international network. In Sunday’s announcement, Biman’s former Chief of Air Staff and current Chairman, Air Marshal Muhammad Enamul Bari stated,
“One of our key priorities is to have a modern fleet with technologically-advanced airplanes that will enable us to expand our international reach. While we have a good domestic network, we plan to extend our international network to include more destinations in Europe, Asia and the Middle East. The 787 with its technological superiority, excellent operational performance and passenger experience will enable us to achieve that goal.”
Part of the three member Dreamliner family, the 787-9 provides a long range and unmatched fuel efficiency in the 200-350 seat market, reducing fuel and emissions by up to 25% compared to older airplane models. In a typical three class configuration, the aircraft can fly up to 7,530 nautical miles (13,950 kilometers). Commenting on today’s announcement, Boeing’s President and CEO – Commercial Airplanes, Stan Deal added,
“Biman Bangladesh is showing us the powerful potential of the Dreamliner family. Just last month, the airline launched a new non-stop flight from its hub in Dhaka to Medina, Saudi Arabia. It’s a great example of the 787-8 serving as a ‘market-opener.’ And now, Biman adds the 787-9 which brings more seats, more range and more cargo-carry capability for the routes that need it. The two will form a profitable network solution for Biman.”
Today’s order was recorded on Boeing’s website as “unidentified” last month. Additionally, Boeing supports Biman with a multi-year agreement that provides their pilots with the Jeppesen Flite Deck Pro X electronic flight bag (EFB). The EFB provides pilots with charts and navigational information, enhancing situational awareness both on the ground and in the air.
Since entering commercial revenue service in 2011, the Boeing 787 Dreamliner family has saved over 45B lbs. of fuel, while opening more than 250 new point-to-point routes. The Dreamliner offers the largest windows of any commercial aircraft, large overhead bins, cleaner (and more humid) cabin air and comforting LED lighting.
Including the new order, Biman Bangladesh Airlines will now have six Dreamliners in their fleet. The airline also operates four 777-300ERs and six 737-800s, along with two DASH-8 turboprops. According to Biman International Airlines, the new Dreamliners will be deployed on the London-Heathrow and Manchester routes starting January 5, 2020.
Source(s): Boeing, Biman Bangladesh Airlines