Air Berlin orders 25 787-8 Dreamliners - largest by any European carrier

Seattle: Air Berlin announced an order for 25 Boeing 787-8 airplanes, valued at $4 billion at list prices. The order is the single largest placed by any European carrier and also brings the total number of 787s ordered globally to 677.

Berlin, Germany-based, Air Berlin, is Europe's third largest low-fare carrier.

With the 787-8's Air Berlin will add long-haul destinations to its low cost operations. Last year Air Berlin purchased German carrier dba as part of its growth plan.

"The 787 is perfectly suited for our new long-haul services," said Joachim Hunold, chief executive officer of Air Berlin. "It is hands-down the best aircraft to deliver the optimum combination of fuel efficiency, environmental performance and passenger comfort that we need to successfully grow our business and deliver a superior product for our customers. Passengers will fall in love with this airplane. The 787's many ground-breaking innovations make it a powerful tool for profitability."

On top of the 25 orders, Air Berlin is securing 10 options and 15 purchase rights for additional 787s.

Air Berlin did not announce an engine supplier for its 787s.

The Boeing 787 Dreamliner provides passengers with a better flying experience and operators with more efficient commercial jetliners. Using 20 per cent less fuel per passenger than similarly sized airplanes, the 787 is designed for the environment with lower emissions and quieter takeoffs and landings.

Inside the airplane, passengers will find cleaner air, bigger windows, more stowage space and improved lighting.

The first 787 is on schedule for delivery to the first customer in May 2008. Including Air Berlin, 47 customers have ordered 677 787s, making it the most successful launch of a commercial airplane in Boeing history.