Boeing [NYSE: BA] and LCAL today announced the leasing company has placed an order for six additional 787-8 Dreamliners, expanding its fleet to 21 of the advanced-technology aircraft.
The deal, worth approximately $972 million at list prices, previously was listed on the Boeing Orders and Deliveries Web site and attributed to an unidentified customer.
Dubai-based LCAL was established in 2005 as an aircraft leasing company with its business based exclusively with the Boeing 787 Dreamliner. The company was the first leasing company to order 787s in 2005 and will be the first leasing company to take delivery of the 787 Dreamliner in 2009.
"The Boeing 787 Dreamliner will set the new standard in operator and passenger preference for decades to come, while taking a significant step to address the environmental issue," said Steve Clarke, LCAL president and chief operating officer. "With early deliveries, LCAL is uniquely positioned to competitively enter the leasing market with the most highly demanded product in the commercial aircraft world."
"With its dedicated and growing Dreamliner fleet, LCAL recognizes continued strong market demand among the world's airlines for the Boeing 787 Dreamliner," said John Feren, vice president of Sales, Leasing and Asset Management, Boeing Commercial Airplanes.
LCAL selected Rolls-Royce's Trent 1000 engine for a number of its 787s, and is negotiating with GE to equip some of its fleet with GEnx engines.
The Boeing 787 Dreamliner offers passengers a better flying experience and provides airline operators greater efficiency to better serve the point-to-point routes and additional frequencies passengers prefer. The technologically advanced 787 will use 20 percent less fuel than today's airplanes of comparable size, provide airlines with up to 45 percent more cargo revenue capacity and present passengers with innovations including a new interior environment with cleaner air, larger windows, more stowage space, improved lighting and other passenger-preferred conveniences.
Since the 787's launch in April 2004, 51 customers have placed orders for 736 aircraft, making it one of the fastest-selling commercial airplanes in aviation history. Additional information about LCAL is available at www.lcal.com.