Boeing delivers first two 787 jets to Riyadh Air

Boeing (NYSE: BA) delivered the first two 787 Dreamliner aircraft to Riyadh Air, marking the initial deliveries from an order for up to 72 aircraft, the company announced June 5.

The aircraft arrived in Riyadh as the Saudi carrier prepares to launch commercial operations. Riyadh Air plans to use the 787-9 aircraft on regional and long-haul routes connecting Saudi Arabia to Europe, Asia, Africa and North America.

"To see our very first custom-built 787 Dreamliner airplanes touch down in Riyadh is a historic moment for us, and a momentous day for Saudi aviation," said Riyadh Air CEO Tony Douglas.

The deliveries support Saudi Arabia's aviation strategy, which targets attracting 150 million visitors and serving 330 million passengers annually by 2030. Riyadh Air intends to serve more than 100 destinations by 2030, with early 787 flights planned to cities including London, Cairo and Jeddah.

Stephanie Pope, president and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes, said the 787 Dreamliner provides efficiency and flexibility across routes for the new carrier.

The announcement was made in a press release statement from Boeing.

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