Riyadh Air has expanded its Boeing 787 order book by exercising options for 28 additional Dreamliners, taking its firm commitment to 67 aircraft as the new Saudi airline accelerates its international growth plans.

The agreement, announced at this year’s Farnborough International Airshow, converts 20 aircraft to the larger 787-10 variant and also reveals a previously undisclosed purchase of 11 Dreamliners.

Once the remaining 17 aircraft are finalised, Riyadh Air’s firm order for the widebody type will total 67 aircraft.

The latest order follows Riyadh Air’s launch of commercial operations and supports its ambition to serve more than 100 international destinations by 2030 as part of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 strategy.

Tony Douglas, chief executive of Riyadh Air, said: “Following the recent launch of full operations, guests have been hugely impressed with the Riyadh Air experience onboard our current fleet of six Boeing 787 jets.

“The addition of the 787-10 strengthens our ability to accommodate growing passenger and cargo demand while providing the operational flexibility required to support our ambitious network plans.”

Operating both the 787-9 and 787-10 will allow the airline to benefit from common pilot training, flight deck systems and maintenance procedures while increasing capacity on busier routes.

Stephanie Pope, president and chief executive of Boeing Commercial Airplanes, said: “We are delighted to see Riyadh Air flying their new 787 airplanes in commercial service and we are deeply honoured they are placing orders for additional 787 Dreamliner aircraft to support their future.

“The 787-10 will be a great complement to Riyadh Air’s growing fleet and advance the airline’s mission to be a world-class airline that delivers an exceptional passenger experience.”

The 787-10 is the largest member of the Dreamliner family and offers around 50 more seats than the 787-9 while reducing fuel consumption and emissions by 25% compared with the aircraft it replaces, according to Boeing.

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