Oman Air confirms $1.2bn Dreamliner purchase

Oman Air has confirmed six orders for Boeing’s next-generation 787-8 Dreamliner, in a deal that is estimated to be worth around $1.2bn.

The deal will see the Omani flag-carrier switch existing orders for the jets from the Kuwait-based ALAFCO aircraft leasing company.

“Our decision to order the 787-8 is part of Oman Air’s long-term growth strategy to expand and modernise our fleet with newer, more fuel-efficient airplanes,” said Peter Hill, Oman Air’s CEO, in an emailed statement.

“We see direct benefits because of the Dreamliner’s fuel efficiency and operating economics as well as the enhanced travel experience that Oman Air will be able to offer its customers aboard this airplane.”

Oman Air did not indicate when it expects the first 787 to be delivered, but the original order from ALAFCO suggested that this would take place in 2014.

Boeing’s Dreamliner, the first carbon-composite commercial airliner, was delivered to its launch customer ANA in September, after three years of delays.

Loss-making Oman Air currently has a fleet of seven Airbus A330s, fifteen Boeing 737NGs and two turboprops.

Officials at the carrier have previously said that they expect the airline to break even around 2014.

Oman Air and Boeing did not confirm the value of the deal, but the average cost of a 787-8 this year is $193.5m, according to the US manufacturer’s website.