Boeing and Royal Brunei Airlines have announced a significant deal for the purchase of four 787 Dreamliners, marking a strategic move to renew the airline's widebody fleet. The announcement came on Thursday during Singapore Airshow 2024. The selection of the 787-9 model aligns with the airline's long-term growth strategy, sustainability objectives, and commitment to passenger comfort. Sabirin bin Haji Abdul Hamid, CEO of Royal Brunei Airlines, expressed his enthusiasm for the forthcoming arrival of the 787-9 Dreamliner, describing it as a bold step forward in the airline's ongoing journey towards innovation and excellence.
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He noted that Royal Brunei Airlines has been operating the 787-8 for the last decade and this order will ensure continuity with a product that their customers have come to appreciate. He emphasized the airline's constant effort to offer unparalleled service matched with the highest safety standards to their guests. The new fleet will enable the airline to tap into new growth areas, strengthening its market appeal and enhancing the travel experience for its guests. Royal Brunei Airlines was the first Southeast Asian carrier to fly the 787 Dreamliner over a decade ago. With this finalized order for the 787-9, which will be posted on Boeing's Orders & Deliveries, the airline will be able to transport more passengers and cargo further while operating more efficiently.
Brad McMullen, Boeing's senior vice president of Commercial Sales and Marketing, highlighted that by renewing its investment in the 787 Dreamliner, Royal Brunei Airlines will continue to connect Brunei with the world while offering the carrier's signature service and comfort to passengers. He added that the 787-9 will deliver the versatility, efficiency, and range that Royal Brunei Airlines desires to pursue increasing air travel and tourism opportunities. Currently, Royal Brunei Airlines operates five 787-8s, serving destinations in Asia, Australia, the Middle East, and the United Kingdom. The 787-9, which can carry nearly 20% more passengers than the 787-8 and fly 14,010 km (7,565 nautical miles), will support the carrier's growing capacity needs on these medium- and long-haul routes.
According to Boeing's 2023 Commercial Market Outlook, there is a forecast of 6.9% annual fleet growth and nearly 4,300 airplanes will be delivered in Southeast Asia over the next 20 years. This latest 787 order by Royal Brunei Airlines underscores the growing widebody demand in Southeast Asia. The 787 family offers enhanced comfort features, including air that is more humid and pressurized at a lower cabin altitude, as well as technology that counters turbulence. Furthermore, the 787 Dreamliner family also reduces fuel use and emissions by up to 25% compared to the airplanes it replaces, contributing to the sustainability goals of the airline.