Royal Brunei Airlines (RB) has signed an agreement with Boeing for the purchase of four Boeing Dreamliner 787-9 widebody airplanes as the national carrier embarks on its next phase of strategic growth.
The USD1.5 billion deal was inked between RB Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Captain Sabirin Haji Abdul Hamid with Boeing Senior Vice President of Commercial Sales and Marketing Brad McCullen during the Singapore Airshow 2024.
The ceo said that the forthcoming arrival of the Dreamliner 787-9 aircraft symbolises a bold step forward in our ongoing journey towards innovation and excellence.
“RB has been operating the Dreamliner 787-8 for the last 10 years, and this order will ensure we continue with a product that our customers come to enjoy,” he said.
Currently, RB operates a fleet of fourteen aircraft comprising five Boeing 787-8 Dreamliners.
Captain Sabirin further said that in the airline’s constant effort to offer unparalleled service matched with the highest safety standards to guests, the new fleet will allow the national carrier potential to tap into new growth areas, strengthening RB’s market appeal and providing a superior travel experience.
“The acquisition of the Dreamliner B787-9 fleet further continues our long-time partnership with Boeing through the past 50 years where we celebrated the 10th year of operating the 787 fleet in the region, last year. We look forward to a more successful future with Boeing as we embark on this new journey together,” said the ceo.
On his part, Brad McMullen said that with the renewal of the 787 Dreamliner investment, RB will continue to connect Brunei with the world while offering the carrier’s signature service and comfort to passengers.
“The 787-9 will deliver the versatility, efficiency and range that Royal Brunei Airlines desires to pursue increasing air travel and tourism opportunities,” he said.
In a statement, US Ambassador to Brunei Darussalam Caryn R. McClelland congratulated RB and Boeing on the agreement, symbolising 40 years of US-Brunei diplomatic relations and Boeing’s 50-year legacy with RB.
The commercial partnership is mutually beneficial to both the US and Brunei economies with RB’s fleet expansion will support Brunei’s growing aviation and tourism industries.
THE BRUNEIAN | BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN
