United Airlines and Boeing have announced that the airline is extending its 787 Dreamliner fleet by exercising options to acquire 50 787-9 planes and gaining an additional 50 options. The latest Dreamliner purchase gives United additional flexibility as it modernises its global fleet over the next decade.

“We’re building a bright future at United, and this order takes our already successful United Next plan into the next decade and beyond,” said Scott Kirby, president and CEO of United Airlines. “Our long-term planning and focus have enabled us to surge ahead of other airlines that have stalled.” I’m confident in our plan as we continue adding new, larger aircraft to take full advantage of our growing international and domestic flying opportunities.”

United has the largest Dreamliner order book on record, with 150 firm orders, and is poised to become the world’s largest 787 operator. The announcement comes on the back of the airline’s record-breaking acquisition of 100 787 jets last year.

United’s existing fleet of more than 70 Dreamliners is the first to operate all three variants of the 787 series. United’s extensive global route network is made possible by the 787’s fuel efficiency and dependability.

“United’s unprecedented commitment to the 787 Dreamliner family is a testament to the market-leading operating economics and reliability of Boeing’s widebody jets,” said Stan Deal, president and CEO of Boeing Commercial Aeroplanes. “With the 787, United will enjoy all the synergies of operating one of the largest, most efficient fleets in the skies.”

Depending on the configuration, the 787 enhances efficiency and performance and lowers fuel usage and emissions by up to 25% compared to the planes it replaces. The 787-9 has a globe-spanning range that allows airlines to fly up to 7,565 nautical miles (14,010 km) with up to 296 people on board.

With over 1,800 orders from 87 customers, including more than 870 repeat orders from 56 repeat customers, the 787 is the best-selling widebody in history. Customers have made approximately 350 orders and commitments for the 787 family in the last twelve months.

Boeing, a global aerospace leader, develops, manufactures, and maintains commercial aircraft, military goods, and space systems for clients in over 150 countries. As the largest US exporter, the firm taps into the capabilities of a worldwide supplier base to enhance economic opportunity, sustainability, and community impact. Boeing’s diverse workforce is dedicated to creating for the future, leading with sustainability, and cultivating a culture based on the company’s fundamental values of safety, quality, and integrity.