Royal Jordanian, the national carrier of Jordan, placed an order worth $500 million for 3 Boeing 787-8s at the ongoing Farnborough Airshow.

Royal Jordanian has committed to 11 787-8s either through direct purchases or leasing. The Middle East carrier placed its first orders for four 787s in 2007 and has also arranged to lease two airplanes each from CIT Aerospace and International Lease Finance Company.

Royal Jordanian was the first airline in the Middle East to order the 787 Dreamliner. It will place the 787 on North American routes initially, including New York, Chicago, Detroit, and Toronto.

'The superior economics and range capability of the 787 will allow us to competitively serve North America and other destinations in our network from Amman,' said Hussein Dabbas, President and CEO of Royal Jordanian. 'The unique passenger appeal of the 787 will enable us to provide a competitive advantage in the markets we serve,' he added.

'This commitment to the 787 by Royal Jordanian will allow for expanded routes and a customer experience second to none,' said Jim Albaugh, President and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes.

'With the 787, Royal Jordanian will operate the world's most advanced and efficient twin-aisle airplane. We will work closely with Royal Jordanian as the airplane prepares to enter service and delight passengers,' he noted.