Boeing and Vietnam Airlines today signed a firm agreement for the purchase of four Boeing 787-8 Dreamliners. The new airplanes, which are valued at $500 million at list prices, are scheduled for delivery in 2009 and 2010. The agreement also includes purchase rights for 11 additional airplanes in the 2010 - 2013 time frame.
“This is another great step as Boeing and Vietnam Airlines continue to build our strong, long-term working together relationship,” said Alan Mulally, president and CEO, Boeing Commercial Airplanes. “The competitive advantages of the 787 Dreamliner will help Vietnam Airlines continue its incredible growth and the development of its global route structure.”

Vietnam Airlines plans to use the 787-8 to expand its route system and to replace some existing airplanes. The airline has not yet made an engine selection.

“We are looking forward to operating the 787 Dreamliner,” said Vietnam Airlines President and CEO Nguyen Xuan Hien. “The superior efficiency of the 787 will allow Vietnam Airlines to further develop our route structure to include city pairs that would otherwise not be financially viable, while providing the best comfort to our passengers.”

Vietnam Airlines has a significant international route system, connecting Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City to major world cities including Moscow, Paris, Beijing, Sydney and Melbourne, Seoul, Osaka, Tokyo, Taipei, Manila and many others.
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