Malaysia Airlines Eyes 10 Boeing 787-10 Dreamliners to Replace Leased A350s
Malaysia Airlines is close to ordering around 10 Boeing 787-10 Dreamliners, which would introduce a new aircraft type to the carrier and replace its small fleet of leased Airbus A350-900s. The move would not represent a broader shift away from Airbus, but rather an advantage gained by Boeing due to earlier delivery positions.
The airline currently operates seven A350-900s, all leased, with their replacement being under evaluation as the leases are set to expire early in the next decade. Malaysia Airlines does not currently operate the 787, its passenger widebody fleet consisting entirely of Airbus aircraft, including 29 A330s and seven A350-900s.
Boeing's offer of earlier deliveries is said to be a key factor in the potential deal, with GE Aerospace also reportedly offering more favorable engine terms than Rolls-Royce. The 787-10 has a range of up to 13,890 km, compared to the A350-900's 15,750 km.