Boeing and Air New Zealand have finalised an order for eight 787-10 Dreamliner planes valued at $2.7 billion at list prices. The carrier will integrate the largest Dreamliner model into its fleet of 787-9 and 777 planes from 2022.

The Vietnamese flag carrier plans to put the 787-10 – the most fuel-efficient twin-aisle airplane in the industry – on the busiest routes in its expanding network. The deal comes via a lease from Air Lease Corporation.

Air New Zealand currently operates a fleet of 13 787-9 Dreamliners which chief executive, Christopher Luxon, said have proved to be the perfect aircraft for the airline’s Pacific Rim focus.

Bamboo Airways, a start-up airline founded in 2017, began commercial operations in January, offering flights linking the capital of Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City with cities in Vietnam.

Boeing delivered some 69 737 planes in December and set a new annual record of 806 deliveries in 2018, surpassing its previous record of 763 deliveries in 2017. The company also grew its order book, with 893 net orders, including 203 plane sales in December.

Boeing has delivered the first 787-9 Dreamliner for Royal Air Maroc, introducing a second member of the super-efficient Dreamliner family to the airline’s fleet. The new airplane offers more seats and more range, which will help Morocco’s flag carrier grow its international business.