Thai Airways International pcl

02/20/2024 | News release | Distributed by Public on 02/20/2024 01:06

THAI Strengthens Fleet Efficiency by Adding Boeing 787 Dreamliners Powered by GEnx Engines

Singapore, 20 February, 2024 - Thai Airways International Public Company Limited, (THAI) Boeing [NYSE:BA] and GE Aerospace [NYSE: GE] announced today the carrier has placed an order and acquisition of 45 Boeing 787 Dreamliner airplanes equipped with GEnx engines, with the potential to acquire up to 80 Dreamliners, at the Singapore Airshow 2024.

THAI further detailed that for this order, THAI has also secured flexibility to convert between aircraft within the Boeing Dreamliner Family, providing the airline with adaptability and versatility to meet evolving market demands. Moreover, THAI has secured a pathway to acquiring the Boeing 777X as part of this arrangement, potentially further enhancing its fleet with superior range, capacity, and performance. The seamless interchangeability between these Dreamliner models and B777X offers THAI strategic advantages in optimizing routes, capacity, and operational efficiency. By leveraging this flexibility, THAI is poised to meet future challenges and capitalize on emerging opportunities.

"Thai Airways' strategic investment in the 787 Dreamliner builds on our long-standing partnership and signifies the airline's commitment to operate a modern, efficient and flexible fleet," said Brad McMullen, Boeing senior vice president of Commercial Sales and Marketing. "This significant order will support Thai Airways' ability to meet demand, foster tourism and trade, and create further opportunities for this carrier."

"To accomplish the Company's carbon neutral goals by 2050, the 45 new Boeing 787 Dreamliners will be equipped with GEnx engines which are known for their cutting-edge technology and reduced environmental impact. Furthermore, we are confident that the acquisition of the 787 Dreamliners will ultimately benefit our customers and support the growth of our country's economy." said Chai Eamsiri, THAI CEO.

The GEnx engine family has more than 50 million flight hours since entry into service in 2011 and is the fastest-selling, high-thrust engine in GE history with nearly 3,000 engines in service and on backlog, including spares, according to data from its manufacturer.

"GE Aerospace is proud to add Thai Airways to the list of leading airlines that have chosen the proven performance and superior efficiency of the GEnx engine to power its new 787 Dreamliners," said Russell Stokes, President and CEO, Commercial Engines and Services, GE Aerospace. "We look forward to working together to introduce these engines into Thai's fleet."

This landmark acquisition demonstrates THAI's commitment to achieving sustainable, long-term fleet growth and ensuring that its customers enjoy the best air travel experience. The 45 new Boeing 787 Dreamliners will be delivered and introduced into THAI's fleet over a ten-year timeframe, with deliveries set to begin in 2027.

As a proud national carrier, THAI is confident that its long-term business plan would accordingly elevate the national economy and tourism sectors, as well as enhancing the positioning of Bangkok as the leading global aviation and tourism hub.

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