Saudia receives its first Boeing 787 Dreamliners

Saudi Arabian Airlines (Saudia) welcomed the delivery of three new Boeing aircraft on Tuesday.

Two 787-9 Dreamliners and a 777-300ER will join the 45 other Boeing planes in the Saudia fleet.

"The delivery of our first Dreamliners marks yet another exciting chapter in Saudia's long-standing relationship with Boeing that began in the early 1960s," Saudia Director General Saleh bin Nasser al-Jasser said. "With its (the 787's) reputation for reliability, operational efficiency and comfort, we now look forward to the 787 becoming an integral addition to Saudia's fleet as we continue our fleet modernization and expansion as part of our transformation plans."

The airline ordered eight 787-9 Dreamliners in 2010. Boeing officials said the planes are designed for improved range, speed and efficiency, opening up more direct flight options for its airline customers. The company's current line of 787 planes covers more than 350 routes across the world.

Saudia expects the delivery of a third Dreamliner next week.