Boeing and Thai Airways announced today that the airline has placed an order for 45 787 Dreamliners as the airline seeks to modernize and grow its widebody fleet and international network. Thai Airways selected the 787-9 to its long-term strategy to renew and expand its fleet with more efficient jets, as well as open new routes to the high demand for air travel across Southeast Asia.
“To meet national and our company's goals of carbon neutrality by 2050, the 45 new Boeing 787 Dreamliners will be equipped with GEnx engines, which are known for their cutting-edge technology and reduced environmental impact,” said Chai Eamsiri, CEO of Thai Airways. “Furthermore, we are confident that the acquisition of 787 Dreamliners will ultimately benefit our customers and the growth of our country’s economy.”
Thai Airways operates widebody jets – including 777s and 787s – to nearly 60 domestic and international destinations, including the Middle East, Asia and Europe. With more 787-9s in its fleet, the airline will operate more efficiently as the Dreamliner family reduces fuel consumption and emissions by up to 25% compared to the planes it replaces.
“Thai Airways’ strategic investment in the 787 Dreamliner builds on our long-standing partnership and signifies the airline’s commitment to operating a modern, efficient and flexible fleet,” said Brad McMullen, Senior Vice President, Commercial Sales and Marketing from Boeing. “This order will Thai Airways’ ability to meet demand, promote tourism and trade, and create more opportunities for this carrier.”
The order, completed in December 2023, was listed as unidentified on the Boeing Orders and Deliveries website. Boeing's 2023 Commercial Market Outlook for Southeast Asia projects the region's wide-body fleet will triple over 20 years, with growing demand for nearly 800 planes, including enger jets such as Boeing's 787 Dreamliner and 777X family. Boeing, as well as freighter models.
At 20 feet (6 meters) longer than the 787-8, the 787-9 will allow Thai Airways to fly almost 20% more engers and develop routes initially opened by the 787-8. Since commercial service began in 2011, the 787 family has launched more than 390 new nonstop routes around the world.
Boeing's partnership with Thai Airways and for the country's aviation industry spans more than 60 years. Boeing's presence in Thailand includes offices in Bangkok and for important causes including STEM education, programs for people with disabilities and sustainable livelihoods through permaculture methods.
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