Boeing has delivered the first Boeing 787 Dreamliner to Iraqi Airways, marking a significant milestone for the airline.
The delivery took place in Baghdad, where a special event was held to welcome the arrival of the new widebody jet.
Iraqi Airways fleet renewal
Iraqi Airways plans to use the Dreamliner to expand its long-haul network and establish connections to more international destinations, enhancing its position as the flag carrier of Iraq.
Iraqi Airways has made notable progress in renewing its fleet in recent months. Since February, the airline has already received four Boeing 737 MAX airplanes.
These additions, consisting of six 737-8s and ten 737-10s, offer enhanced capabilities for the airline’s regional and medium-haul routes.
The focus on fleet renewal aligns with Iraqi Airways’ commitment to meeting the growing demand for air travel in and out of Iraq with modern, efficient, and comfortable aircraft.
Director General of Iraqi Airways, Manaf Abdel-Monem, expressed pride in the acquisition of the Boeing 787 Dreamliner, emphasizing its vital role in matching the increasing domestic and international air traffic demand.
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He highlighted the significance of the 787 and the 737 MAX in the airline’s fleet renewal program, which aims to ensure a safe and comfortable flying experience for passengers.
The program is crucial for maintaining the high standards expected from a reputable airline like Iraqi Airways.
A move to further expansion
Currently serving over 50 destinations from Baghdad, Iraqi Airways aims to expand its operations further and accommodate the anticipated rise in international business and leisure travel to and from Iraq.
The country has experienced improved stability and economic growth, with an annual gross domestic product growth rate expected to reach 7% by the end of 2023.
Moreover, Middle Eastern airlines have observed a traffic increase of over 40% compared to the previous year, indicating the region’s growing aviation sector.
Omar Arekat, Boeing’s Vice President of Commercial Sales and Marketing for the Middle East, commented on the significance of the delivery, stating that it marked a new beginning for Iraqi Airways.
He reaffirmed Boeing’s commitment to supporting the airline in optimizing its operations and exploring new route possibilities within the region.
The arrival of the Boeing 787 Dreamliner is a testament to the company’s dedication to connecting the people of Iraq to the rest of the world.
Kuljit Ghata-Aura, President Middle East, Türkiye and Africa at Boeing, emphasized the pivotal role of air transport in fostering economic growth.
She stated that the introduction of the Boeing 787 Dreamliner would contribute to connecting the Iraqi people to the region and the world, benefiting employment, trade, tourism, and sustainable development.
Boeing looks forward to assisting the Iraqi government and private sector in expanding the country’s commercial fleet and modernizing its aviation infrastructure.
The 787-8 Dreamliner
The Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, with its exceptional efficiency, is capable of carrying 248 passengers over a distance of 7,305 nautical miles (13,530 km) in a typical two-class configuration.
Its impressive fuel efficiency reduces consumption by 25% compared to previous aircraft models, resulting in a 25% reduction in emissions. Since its introduction in 2011, the 787 Dreamliner family has contributed to a significant decrease of over 141 billion pounds of carbon emissions.
Boeing’s commitment to superior efficiency enables airlines to establish profitable new routes, providing passengers with direct flights to their desired destinations in unparalleled comfort.
Over the years, the 787 Dreamliner family has facilitated the launch of more than 350 non-stop routes worldwide, including over 50 routes since 2020.
Passengers on board the Dreamliner benefit from a range of enhancements, including the largest windows of any jet, improved cabin air quality, spacious overhead bins, soothing LED lighting, and advanced turbulence-detection technology for a smoother flight experience.
Iraqi Airways fleet
Aside from the 737-8 and 787-8 aircraft, Iraqi Airways operates a diverse fleet of over 40 Boeing airplanes, including 737-800s, 747s, and 777s. This extensive fleet allows the airline to serve its expanding network of more than 50 destinations from Baghdad, meeting the diverse travel needs of its passengers.
The delivery of the first Boeing 787 Dreamliner to Iraqi Airways represents a significant step in the airline’s growth and its aim to connect Iraq to the world.
With its fuel efficiency, environmental benefits, and passenger comfort features, the Dreamliner will play a pivotal role in the expansion of Iraqi Airways’ international reach.
Boeing’s commitment to supporting Iraqi Airways’ goals reflects the importance of air transport in driving economic development, promoting connectivity, and fostering a prosperous future for Iraq’s commercial aviation industry.
