Donghai Airlines and Boeing announced today the finalisation of an order for five B787-9 Dreamliners, valued at US$1.32 billion at current list prices.

Shenzhen-based Donghai Airlines announced its intent to order 25 B737 MAX 8s and five B787-9 Dreamliners in July at the Farnborough International Airshow. Today’s B787-9 order comes just weeks after the carrier finalised its B737 MAX 8 order last month.

“Donghai Airlines has undergone steady development over the past 10 years since the beginning of our freighter operations in 2006,” said Wong Cho-Bau, chairman, Donghai Airlines. “Under China’s One Belt One Road initiative, we will accelerate our fleet expansion plan to satisfy the rapidly growing air travel market and help build our home base Shenzhen as the transportation hub in southern China. Introducing these new next-generation airplanes that deliver the industry-leading fuel efficiency and passenger comfort in their segment market will be a key effort for us to fulfill the plan.”

“We are honored to welcome Donghai Airlines as our new B787 customer,” said Ihssane Mounir, senior vice president, Sales, Northeast Asia, Boeing Commercial Airplanes. “The 787-9 is a great addition to Donghai’s single-aisle fleet, offering a superior passenger experience and comfort, exceptional efficiency and low operating costs.”

Donghai Airlines started freighter operations in 2006 and expanded to offer passenger services in 2014. Donghai Airlines currently has a fleet of 13 B737-800s serving for more than 10 cities across China. Donghai Airlines’ fleet is expected to reach 15 aircraft by the end of this year. With extended air route network, the Shenzhen-based carrier is making great efforts to build a modern medium-scale airline with high quality.