Air New Zealand has taken delivery of the first B787-9 variant from Boeing at the manufacturer’s facility in Everett, Washington.
ANZ is the 787-9’s launch customer, and has 10 aircraft on order as part of a fleet modernization programme. The airline expects to use the aircraft on the Auckland-Perth route commencing in October, and to Shanghai and Tokyo in November.
ANZ’s CFO Rob McDonald said: "We are proud to be the launch customer for the 787-9. 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."
Twenty-six customers have ordered 409 787-9s so-far, accounting for 40% of all 787 orders.