Boeing and Royal Air Maroc have announced orders for four 787-9 Dreamliners – valued at $1.1 billion at list prices – that will enable Morocco’s flag-carrier to expand international services.

The orders include two 787s purchased in December 2016 and two purchased this month.

Royal Air Maroc, which has already taken delivery of five 787-8s, will now grow its fleet of fuel-efficient 787s to a total of nine airplanes.

Royal Air Maroc flies 787s on international routes from Casablanca to North America, South America, the Middle East and Europe, and with the additional airplanes plans to expand service to these areas.

“Today Royal Air Maroc has direct flights to 80 international destinations.

“Thanks to our unique position as a geographic hub and high quality of service, we bring customers from all over the world to their destinations.

“With more than 850 flights per month to Africa, Royal Air Maroc has the broadest presence across the continent of any airline,” said Abdelhamid Addou, chief executive, Royal Air Maroc.

He added: “Our vision is to be the leading airline in Africa in terms of quality of service, quality of planes and connectivity.

“Ordering new-generation planes such as the Dreamliner puts our airline on the right track to fulfil our vision.”

Royal Air Maroc is celebrating its 60th anniversary this year.

Its fleet includes more than 56 Boeing airplanes, including 737s, 767-300ERs, 787s and a 747-400.

“Royal Air Maroc’s additional 787 orders are a terrific endorsement of the Dreamliner’s economic performance, fuel efficiency and unrivalled passenger experience,” said

Ihssane Mounir, senior vice president of global sales and marketing for Boeing Commercial Airplanes.

“Expanding the relationship between our companies that began nearly 50 years ago, Boeing is proud to support Royal Air Maroc’s growth plans within Africa and further connect Morocco to the world.”