EVA Air confirms largest ever order

EVA Air today finalised the largest aircraft order in the history of Taiwanese aviation.

The deal with Boeing for up to 24 B787-10 Dreamliners and two B777-300ER aircraft is valued at more than US$8 billion at current list prices, and forms a major part of the Taipei-based airline’s long-haul expansion strategy.

“EVA participated in development of the Boeing 777-300ER and became a launch customer in 2005. From that first delivery through today, we operate 22 of these high-performance long-haul aircraft,” said the airline’s president, Austin Cheng.

“We believe the future of the airline industry will be built on fuel efficiency and cabin comfort. The new Boeing 787-10 Dreamliner’s high-fuel efficiency and long-range flying capabilities meets these requirements and our operational needs. These planes will support our growth well into the future.”

EVA becomes a new customer for the Dreamliner series, and will become one of the first airlines in the world to operate the B787-10 – the largest version of the aircraft. While the configuration of these new aircraft has not been decided, the B787-10 is designed to accommodate approximately 330 passengers in a typical two-class layout.

EVA already operates a large fleet of B777-300ERs, which it configures with either 312 or 333 seats in a three-class layout.

“For many years, EVA Air has been pushing the boundaries of aviation. Ten years ago, EVA was a launch customer for the 777-300ER. With today’s order, Boeing is proud to continue playing an integral role in revolutionising Taiwan’s aviation history as EVA becomes one of the first customers around the world to operate the 787-10,” said Ray Conner, president & CEO of Boeing’s commercial aircraft unit.

EVA will use the new aircraft to modernise and expand its long-haul fleet, with the overall aim of growing operating 100 aircraft by 2020, up from 64 at present.