AirFrance-KLM Group has confirmed today that they are placing an order for 25 Boeing 787-9s with an option for 25 extra birds.
The group has has stated they want the 787-9’s to operate with KLM first – due to commence in 2016 – and with Air France at a date to be determined.
The Boeing 787-9 is a lengthened version of the 787-8 frame, allowing more passengers and frieght to be carried with a higher range – according to Boeing – 264 passengers in a 3 Class Configuration on a 787-8, 280 passengers in a 3 Class Configuration.
Air New Zealand will be the first carrier to operate the 787-9, although it’s highly probable that the Entry into Service date will probably slip (like a lot of the 787 project so far) judging how Boeing is delivering its current stack of 787’s.
AirFrance-KLM is still negotiating its order with Airbus of A350’s with Airbus at this time.