Why is the 787-10 not popular?

The 787-10: A Niche Player in the Aviation Industry

Despite its impressive fuel efficiency and expanded capacity, the Boeing 787-10 has faced limited popularity compared to its siblings, the 787-8 and 787-9. This article explores the reasons behind the 787-10’s relatively subdued market performance.

Limited Range Constraints

A primary factor contributing to the 787-10’s slower adoption is its shorter range compared to other 787 variants. With a range of approximately 6,000 nautical miles, the 787-10 falls short of the 787-8 and 787-9, which boast ranges of 7,635 and 8,500 nautical miles, respectively.

This limited range significantly constrains the potential routes that airlines can operate with the 787-10. Long-haul operations, which are often more profitable, become infeasible due to the aircraft’s shorter range. Airlines are reluctant to commit to routes that require refueling stops, as they add complexity and increase operational costs.

Niche Market Appeal

The 787-10’s reduced range has relegated it to a niche market segment. It is primarily suited for medium-haul routes with lower passenger demand, where its expanded capacity of up to 330 seats is not fully utilized. However, this niche market segment is relatively small compared to the vast long-haul market served by the 787-8 and 787-9.

Competitive Landscape

The aviation industry is highly competitive, with multiple aircraft manufacturers vying for market share. In the wide-body segment, the 787-10 faces fierce competition from Airbus’s A350-900 and A330neo. These aircraft offer comparable capacity and range while incorporating advanced technologies, making them more attractive to airlines seeking a cost-effective and efficient wide-body solution.

Impact on Order Numbers

The limited popularity of the 787-10 has impacted its order numbers. While the 787-8 and 787-9 have garnered significant orders, the 787-10 has received considerably fewer. This suggests that airlines are prioritizing longer-range aircraft for their long-haul operations, relegating the 787-10 to a smaller role in their fleets.

Conclusion

The Boeing 787-10, despite its technological advancements and expanded capacity, has encountered challenges in gaining widespread popularity. Its limited range constrains its potential routes, making it less appealing to airlines compared to the longer-range 787-8 and 787-9 variants. This has resulted in a niche market positioning for the 787-10, limiting its order numbers in the competitive aviation industry.