LATAM group today announced an order for five more Boeing 787 Dreamliners to continue advancing its commitment to be more efficient and sustainable. The purchase ranks the South American airline group as the largest operators of Dreamliners in Latin America.
With this order, together with the already scheduled deliveries of this model in the upcoming years, LATAM group will reach a total of 46 Boeing 787 airplanes. Representing an increase of 20 airplanes of this model compared to the pre-pandemic fleet, this investment reinforces the group’s commitment to have one of the most modern and efficient fleets in South America.
Additionally, LATAM group has decided to equip the next Boeing 787s it receives with GEnx engines by GE Aerospace, becoming the first airline in South America to have these engines known for their high performance and efficiency.
“These actions are fully aligned with the commitment to sustainability and brings LATAM closer to the goal of becoming a carbon neutral group by 2050”, said Ramiro Alfonsín, LATAM Airlines Group S.A CFO. “The incorporation of GEnx engines is a decision that provides greater flexibility and options for the expansion of the long-range fleet. Furthermore, increasing the Boeing 787 fleet size will allow the group to operate with two different engine models, known for their cutting-edge technology and reduced environmental impact, in a complementary way.”
“The 787 Dreamliner is perfectly suited to support LATAM group’s sustainability and operations goals with its exceptional performance, flexible route capability and enhanced passenger comfort”, said Mike Wilson, vice president of Latin America and Caribbean Sales, Boeing Commercial Airplanes. “We look forward to partnering with LATAM group as it connects Latin America with the world and makes a difference in the communities it serves.”
The GEnx engine family has more than 50 million flight hours since entry into service in 2011 and is the fastest-selling, high-thrust engine in GE history with nearly 3,000 engines in service and on backlog, including spares, according to data from its manufacturer.
“GE Aerospace is pleased to welcome the LATAM Airlines Group to the GEnx engine family,” said Kathy MacKenzie, Vice President, GE Commercial Programs for GE Aerospace. “As LATAM group continues to expand and grow its 787 Dreamliner fleet, we look forward to supporting their continued success every step of the way.”
The 787 Dreamliner family delivers superior fuel efficiency, keeping airline customers competitive. The Boeing 787 uses 25% less fuel and creates 25% fewer emissions than the airplanes they replace. The Boeing 787-9 can fly 300 passengers 7,565 nautical miles (14,010km), according to data from its manufacturer.
The Boeing 787 is designed for comfort, offering a spacious cabin, adjustable LED lighting, the largest windows, improved air quality, smooth ride technology, and ample storage for more enjoyable flying experience, according to data from its manufacturer.
Currently, the airline group has 332 aircraft, 56 Boeing passenger aircraft (models 767, 777 and 787) and 256 Airbus aircraft (models A319, A320, A320neo, A321 y A321neo). In addition LATAM Cargo has 20 cargo aircraft.