CHILE' s LAN Airlines has inked a multi-billion dollar deal to buy 26 787 Dreamliners and two 777Fs from Boeing. The order marks the 787 largest acquisition by a Latin American carrier, which will lease a further six B787-9s from International Lease Finance and another two 777 freighters from GE Commercial Aviation Services.
The US$4.5 billion Dreamliner order consists of a mix of 787-8s and 787-9s. The two 777 freighters are valued at US$500 million and are scheduled to enter service beginning in the fourth quarter of 2008. The 787 will provide up to 45 per cent more cargo revenue capacity, for the airline, according to Boeing estimates.
"This order reaffirms support for Boeing' s Dreamliner from the largest and one of the most profitable airlines in Latin America," said John Wojick, Boeing Commercial Airplanes vice-president, sales, Latin America and the Caribbean.
"In addition, LAN's long-haul cargo operations will gain unmatched efficiency with the 777 freighter, which offers more capacity and greater range than any other twin-engine freighter," Wojick said.
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