Taiwan's EVA Airways to buy 26 Boeing planes

US aerospace giant Boeing said Thursday that Taiwan's EVA Airways plans to buy up to 26 jetliners, valued at more than $8 billion at list prices.

EVA Airways intends to purchase up to 24 787-10 Dreamliners, the newest member of the 787 family, and two additional 777-300 ER (extended-range) aircraft, Boeing said in a statement.

"We look forward to welcoming EVA Airways as Boeing's newest member of the 787-10 Dreamliner launch customer group," said Ray Conner, Boeing Commercial Airplanes president and chief executive.

"EVA Airways has been a valued Boeing customer over the past few decades and we are honored that they continue to introduce new Boeing widebody airplanes into their growing world-class fleet."

The new 787-10 will be the longest member of the 787 family, joining the 787 and the 787-9. According to Boeing, the 787-10 will be 25 percent better in fuel and emissions than the airplanes it replaces and will be able to carry 350 passengers.

The 777-300 ER can carry up to 400 passengers.

Boeing said that EVA Airways was updating its long-haul fleet and the new airplanes will allow it to expand into new markets, particularly in Southeast Asia, Oceania and North America.

The privately owned airline currently operates more than 37 Boeing airplanes in its fleet, including 21 777-300ERs, Boeing said. Its fleet of 69 aircraft also includes 30 Airbus planes.

Dow member Boeing shares rose 1.9 percent to $136.74 in morning trade.