Air New Zealand 787-9

Air New Zealand has taken the delivery of its first 787-9 Dreamliner, becoming the launch customer of the wide-body aircraft.

Executives of Air New Zealand and Boeing employees representing the 787 programme joined the celebration of the milestone event, Boeing said.

Powered by Rolls-Royce engines, Air New Zealand’s 787-9 is part of the airline’s fleet modernisation strategy.

The new aircraft features a unique black livery, and is the first of ten Dreamliners to join Air New Zealand’s fleet.

The 787-9 will be launched in October for the Auckland – Perth route and from and to Tokyo and Shanghai in November this year.

Air New Zealand chief financial officer Rob McDonald said: "We believe it will be a game-changer for Air New Zealand, with increased levels of fuel efficiency and passenger comfort.

"We look forward to inviting our customers on board to experience the aircraft and all of its benefits for themselves."

The 787-9 has a fuselage stretched by 20ft compared with the 787-8, and can accommodate 40 more passengers.

The aircraft is said to travel an additional 450 nautical miles with 20% less fuel use and 20% fewer emissions over others in the segment.

To date, the 787-9 has logged 409 orders from twenty six customers from across the world, which represents 40% of all 787 orders.

Image: Air New Zealand’s 787-9 Dreamliner. Photo: courtesy of Boeing.

Defence Technology