Boeing and Royal Jordanian have celebrated the delivery of the airline’s first 787 Dreamliner, with the carrier becoming the second airline in the Middle East to operate the jet.

The airplane, acquired through leasing company AerCap, will play a central role in the Amman-based airline’s strategic plan for fleet modernisation, a statement said.

 “We are delighted to receive our first 787 which will not only revolutionise the inflight experience for our passengers but also help Royal Jordanian increase its competitiveness both regionally and internationally,” said Royal Jordanian chairman of the board, president and CEO Nasser Lozi.

The 787 is the most technologically advanced airplane with composite materials making up 50 per cent of the primary structure by weight, including the fuselage and wing, it said.

In addition to bringing big-jet ranges to midsize airplanes, the 787 will provide Royal Jordanian with fuel efficiency, using 20 per cent less fuel than today’s similarly sized airplanes.

The 787 features a host of new technologies that will greatly enhance the passenger experience. The airline will configure its Dreamliner to carry 24 passengers in business class and 246 in economy class, the statement said.

Royal Jordanian customers in all classes will also experience cabin environment improvements such as LED mood lighting, larger windows, bigger overhead bins, lower cabin altitude and enhanced ventilation systems among other features, it said.

“The Middle East is one of the world’s highest growth areas for commercial aviation and we are proud that Royal Jordanian has selected the 787 to spearhead its fleet modernisation strategy and route expansion plans,” said Ray Conner, president and CEO, Boeing commercial airplanes. “We look forward to further strengthening our partnership with Royal Jordanian well into the future.” – TradeArabia News Service