Avianca announced that Boeing’s 787-8 Dreamliner will be the only wide-body aircraft the airline will operate on its long-haul flights.
Taking into account current and future route requirements, the airline’s capacity, operational efficiency and profitability, the company will operate the aircraft on long-haul flights in the Americas and Europe.
Rohit Philip, Avianca’s Chief Financial Officer, said, «One of Avianca’s strategic objectives is to simplify its fleet and increase efficiency; the selection of the 787-8 as the only aircraft type for long-haul flights is a significant step in this direction. Thanks to the open and constructive dialogues with Boeing, Rolls-Royce, lessors and financial institutions, we are proud to confirm that we will continue to operate the Dreamliner, an outstanding aircraft that, given its capabilities, features, efficiency, and comfort, is the best for our company and our customers. We look forward to maintaining our business cabin seating, targeting business customers, while re-designing the rest of the aircraft with state-of-the-art seating over the next 18 months.»
This type of aircraft, whose acquisition was announced by the company in 2007, has the technology to accomplish a greater range while consuming 20% less fuel and generating substantially reduced CO2 emissions compared to previous-generation aircraft. It also provides superior cargo capacity, greater fuel efficiency, and more seats, contributing to the airline’s financial results.
Ricardo Cavero, Boeing Commercial Airplanes Vice President of Sales for Latin America and the Caribbean, said, «We would like to thank Avianca for their continued engagement with the 787 Dreamliner. The aircraft, and its leading-edge economic and environmental performance, will serve Avianca well as it grows during the market recovery ahead».
In terms of the traveler experience, the 787’s design provides improved cabin pressurization levels and less dry air, enhancing the long-haul flight experience.
In conclusion, Ewen McDonald, Chief Customer Officer of Rolls-Royce Civil Aerospace, said, «Throughout the pandemic, we have done everything we could to help our customers manage the impact of Covid-19 on their organizations, working closely with them to find solutions to the existing challenges. We are pleased with Avianca’s decision to retain the Rolls-Royce Trent 1000-powered 787 and look forward to working together for many years to come».
