Story ID: 506 Boeing 787 Azerbaijan
Azerbaijan Airlines Triples Dreamliner Fleet
By: David Donald
Caption: Azerbaijan Airlines has been pleased with its initial two 787s and intends to build its fleet to at least 10 in the coming years.
Word Count: 188
Boeing has signed a memorandum of understanding with Azerbaijan Airlines covering the supply of four 787-8 Dreamliners. The aircraft will add to the two existing 787s operated by the Central Asian carrier, which has stated an aim to operate 10 across an expanded network by 2030. The 787-8 offers a range of up 7,300 nm in a typical two-class arrangement.

"Azerbaijan Airlines was the first airline in the Caspian and Central Asia region to operate the 787-8,” said Jahangir Asgarov, president of Azerbaijan Airlines. “Over the years, our 787 airplanes have provided impeccable performance, and the addition of more long-haul airplanes will further expand the geography of Azerbaijan Airlines' route network.”

The carrier also operates Boeing 757s, 767s, and 777s from its Baku hub. "Today's agreement extends our long-term partnership with Azerbaijan Airlines as they renew their fleet to capitalize on the growing long-term travel demand that we are seeing globally," said Stan Deal, president and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes. "The global in-service 787 fleet has been the most-utilized widebody during the market downturn, and we are confident in the proven performance capabilities of this airplane."