China’s Xiamen Airlines has become the lastest Chinese carrier to order the 787, having completed a transaction for six 787-8s.
The deal potentially opens the way for Xiamen to operate the type to Australia as part of its expansion strategy built around the 787. With the introduction of the 787 beginning in 2014, Xiamen plans to launch new long-haul routes from its Fujian base to Europe, North America and Australia.
“The range and efficiency of the 787 makes it an ideal fit in our new nonstop international routes,” said Che Shanglun, Xiamen Airlines CEO.
As China’s only all-Boeing fleet carrier, Xiamen Airlines has earned a profit for 27 consecutive years, one of the most consistently successful financial performances in the industry.
The airline currently operates a fleet of 17 737-700s, 74 737-800s and six 757-200s. The network comprises 218 domestic and 26 international and regional routes. The airline will take delivery of its 100th Boeing aircraft in November 2013.
