Avianca

Colombian airline Avianca has taken the delivery of its first mid-size, wide-body 787 Dreamliner.

The carrier’s 787-8 is designed to accommodate 28 passengers in business class and 222 in economy class.

The 787 is said to feature cabin environment improvements, including dynamic LED lighting, larger windows, bigger overhead bins, lower cabin altitude, humid environment, low interior noise, cleaner air and a smoother ride.

Avianca president and CEO Fabio Villegas Ramirez said: "The addition of the first Boeing 787-8 to Avianca’s fleet is a milestone for commercial aviation and for our airline, which strives to bring the most advanced aviation technology to our passengers."

Boeing Commercial Airplanes Latin America, Africa and Caribbean sales vice-president Van Rex Gallard said: "The 787 Dreamliner, with its high-efficiency, enhanced environmental performance and preferred passenger experience, is an ideal airplane for the Latin American market, and Boeing is pleased and honoured that Avianca will use the 787 to modernise its fleet and delight its customers."

According to Boeing, the 787 is said to offer a 20% in fuel efficiency and emissions reduction compared with the aircraft it replaces.

Avianca is working to modernise its fleet with new aircraft, which will serve 24 destinations in Colombia and 98 destinations in South America, North America and Europe.

Boeing has so far received 1,055 orders for 787s from 58 customers worldwide, making it the fastest-selling twin-aisle aircraft in the company’s history.

Image: Avianca’s 787-8 is designed to accommodate 28 passengers in business class and 222 in economy. Photo: courtesy of Boeing.