Uzbekistan Airways Orders Up To 22 Boeing 787 Dreamliners

(787 Image Courtesy of Boeing)

Boeing [NYSE: BA] and Uzbekistan Airways announced the single largest order in the airline's history as the flag carrier plans to acquire up to 22 787 Dreamliners.

Officials said Uzbekistan Airways' purchase of 14 787-9 airplanes, with options for eight more of the jets, will modernize its Boeing widebody fleet.

The Wall Street Journal reported the deal is worth more than $8 billion, according to President Trump.

Republic of Uzbekistan President Shavkat Mirziyoyev joined leaders from Boeing and Uzbekistan Airways to commemorate the firm order on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly.

Boeing and the Uzbekistan Ministry of Transport also signed a Memorandum of Cooperation to explore opportunities to further expand the country's aviation ecosystem.

"The Boeing 787 Dreamliner family has proven to be the cornerstone of our long-haul operations," said Uzbekistan Airways Chairman Shukhrat Khudaikulov. "With this new contract, we are further strengthening both our airline's and our nation's position as a leading aviation hub in Central Asia, while providing our passengers with greater global connectivity. This step reaffirms our ambitions and strategic commitment to sustainable growth."

Gov. Henry McMaster’s office notes that for more than a decade, Boeing South Carolina (BSC) has been the home of the full 787 Dreamliner production cycle and fabricates, assembles, and delivers the 787-8, 787-9 and 787-10 to customers globally.

The company established operations in South Carolina in 2009 and last year employed more than 7,800 people across its Airport and North Campuses in North Charleston, and its West Campus in Orangeburg.

The first 787 operator in Central Asia, Uzbekistan Airways leverages its fleet of 787-8 airplanes to connect markets in Europe, Asia and the U.S., including a direct flight to New York City.

Officials said with increased capacity and extended range, the 787-9 will enable Uzbekistan Airways to expand international routes to the U.S. and other long-haul destinations as demand for international travel continues to rise.

"We value our nearly 30-year partnership with Uzbekistan Airways and will continue to support their growth strategy as they further connect the region and world," said Brad McMullen, Boeing senior vice president of Commercial Sales and Marketing.

Officials said the 787 Dreamliner family, recognized for its fuel efficiency, versatility and passenger comfort, enables airlines like Uzbekistan Airways to open new routes and serve more destinations.

The 787's advanced aerodynamics, composite materials and innovative systems reduce fuel use by 25 percent compared to airplanes they replace, the officials said.