Monarch orders Dreamliners

today announced that the

787-8 Dreamliner will form the core of its future long-haul fleet.

Monarch’s shareholders have placed an order for six of the new aircraft, worth $916m at list prices, with options for another four. The company’s current long-haul fleet is comprised of Airbus A330, A300 and Boeing 767 aircraft. The 787 aircraft are scheduled for delivery from the end of 2010.

Using 20% less fuel per passenger than similarly sized aircraft, the Boeing 787 is said to be designed for the environment with lower emissions and quieter takeoffs and landings.

Monarch’s CEO, Peter Brown commented, 'After months of extensive evaluation, we are delighted to have concluded that the Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner is the ideal aircraft to replace Monarch’s existing fleet of wide-bodied aircraft. With delivery scheduled between 2010 and 2013, we are confident that their introduction into our fleet will provide us with an unbeatable product offering and greatly enhance the onboard passenger experience on our flights.'

Monarch currently operates a fleet of 28 aircraft, serving over 100 destinations worldwide. Services are split between scheduled and charter flights, with the airline carrying over six million passengers per year.