Boeing and Donghai Airlines announced today the airline’s intent to purchase 25 737 MAX 8s and five 787-9 Dreamliners at the 2016 Farnborough International Airshow.
The agreement is valued at more than $4 billion and is part of Donghai’s plan to fulfill its strategic plan to convert its business model from cargo services to passenger services.
Donghai Airlines chairman, Wong Cho-Bau says: “Donghai Airlines has undergone steady development over the past 10 years since the beginning of our freighter operations in 2006.
“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.
“We’re committed to introducing new next-generation airplanes that deliver the industry-leading fuel efficiency and passenger comfort in their segment market as a key effort to fulfill the plan.”
Boeing will work with Donghai Airlines to finalise the details of the agreement. The order will be posted on Boeing’s Orders & Deliveries website once all contingencies are cleared.
Donghai Airlines started freighter operations in 2006. The carrier expanded to offer passenger services in 2014. Donghai Airlines currently has a fleet of 11 Boeing 737-800s serving for more than 10 cities across China. With extended air route network, the Shenzhen-based carrier is making great efforts to build a modern medium-scale airline with high quality.
