United Airlines places huge order for Boeing 787 Dreamliners

https://www.npr.org/2022/12/13/ [login to see] /united-airlines-order-boeing-787-dreamliners
United Airlines is announcing Tuesday what it says it the largest order of wide-body airplanes by a U.S. airline in commercial aviation history.

The Chicago-based carrier is purchasing 100 of Boeing's 787 Dreamliner jets, with options to order 100 more of the fuel-efficient aircraft.

The 787 is made with lighter-weight composite materials, which, along with technological improvements and a more aerodynamic design, will provide 25% greater fuel efficiency than the older 767s and 777s that they will replace, according to United and Boeing. Many of the 767s in United's fleet are over or approaching 30 years of age and airline officials say those will need to be retired soon.

Depending on the size and seat configuration, United's 787s can carry between 219 and 318 passengers. And with the greater fuel efficiency, the 787 also has a longer range, so United plans to use the planes to expand its long-haul routes to international destinations.