Key takeaways:

• Boeing 787-10 cheapest to operate: USD 19.54 per seat per hour
• Boeing backlog hits 993 aircraft vs Airbus 283
• A330-900neo costs USD 109 million (TK 1,330 crore 54 lakh 99 thousand 200)
• United Airlines planning 221 Boeing 787 fleet
• 636 Dreamliners vs 111 A330neos currently flying
• Airbus A330neo development cost only USD 2 billion
• 14% fuel efficiency improvement in A330neo
• Delta Air Lines only US carrier with A330neo

Boeing's 787 Dreamliner and Airbus 330neo compete fiercely in the mid-range widebody market, with airlines weighing purchase prices, operating costs, and delivery timelines before placing orders.

Market rate for A330-900neo stands at roughly USD 109 million (TK 1,330 crore 54 lakh 99 thousand 200), though exact contract figures vary. Boeing has not disclosed specific 787 pricing, but industry estimates suggest comparable rates. However, operating costs tell a different story.

Boeing 787-10 operates at just USD19.54 per seat per hour, making it the most economical option. A330-900neo costs USD 22.43 per seat per hour, while 787-9 runs at USD 25.86 and A330-800neo at USD 28.36. These figures include fuel, maintenance, depreciation, and crew expenses.

Boeing faces a massive backlog of 993 aircraft orders, compared to Airbus's 283 A330neo orders. This backlog creates delays, pushing airlines towards A330neo for quicker deliveries. Airbus delivered 22 A330-900neo aircraft through October 2025, with Etihad Airways recently ordering 15 units at Dubai Airshow 2025, expecting deliveries from 2027.

Currently, 636 Dreamliners and 111 A330neos operate worldwide. United Airlines plans to expand its fleet to 221 787s, making it the world's largest operator. Delta Air Lines leads A330neo operations and remains the only American carrier flying the type.

Airbus launched the A330neo programme in 2014 for just USD 2 billion, fitting Rolls-Royce Trent 7000 engines that improve fuel efficiency by 14% per seat. Boeing 787 had entered service earlier, capturing significant market share before A330neo arrived.

Source: Simpleflying.