Air New Zealand will acquire eight Boeing 787-10 Dreamliners as part of a fleet renewal that replaces its eight aging Boeing 777-200ERs by 2025.
The first 787-10 is expected to join the fleet in late 2022, with the remaining aircraft delivered through 2027. The purchase agreement also includes an option to expand the order up to 20 aircraft, which could include smaller 787-9 variants.
According to Boeing, Air New Zealand selected the 787-10 because it complements the airline’s existing mix of 787-9s and 777s by providing additional seating capacity and improved fuel efficiency to support growth.
The 787-10 is the largest model in the 787 Dreamliner family. At roughly 68 meters long, it can carry about 330 passengers in a two-class layout—approximately 40 more seats than the 787-9—while delivering better fuel performance per seat.
Christopher Luxon, Air New Zealand’s chief executive, said the 787-10’s increased length and enhanced fuel efficiency were key factors, and that close collaboration with Boeing ensured the aircraft will meet the airline’s route requirements, including missions similar to those currently flown by the 777-200ER fleet.
Luxon added that the 787-10 will provide almost 15 percent more space for passengers and cargo than the 787-9, creating a platform for the airline’s strategic direction and opening new opportunities for network and capacity growth.