Nakash Group selects Trent 1000 and a double Totalcare order

The Nakash Group of America has ordered Rolls-Royce Trent 1000 engines for two firm and two option Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners in a deal potentially worth around $160 million at list prices. Tel Aviv-based Arkia Israeli Airlines will operate the aircraft following delivery in 2012.

In addition, the Nakash Group has also opted for two lifetime TotalCare® services agreements, under which Rolls-Royce will assume responsibility for all engine maintenance. The first is to support the Trent 1000s for these new 787s, while the second will cover Arkia’s existing RB211-535s on two Boeing 757s.

Joe Nakash, Chairman of the Nakash Group, said: “The Trent 1000 has been specifically designed for the 787’s operations and we feel this will offer us the best economic solution. The Trent-powered 787 will be the backbone of Arkia’s future operations but we’re also conscious about protecting our existing engine assets. Transferring the management of Rolls-Royce engines back to the manufacturer will minimise operational and financial risks for Arkia.”

Chris Cyr, Executive Vice President - Americas at Rolls-Royce, added: “For an ambitious airline like Arkia, looking to grow its operations, the Trent-powered 787-9 provides excellent flexibility opening the doors to a range of markets. Reliability and minimising risk are key to achieving growth. In the Trent 1000, Nakash and Arkia have an engine asset that can help them achieve their goals.”

Trent 1000s were installed on the first 787 that rolled out of Boeing’s facility last night. As launch engine for the Dreamliner, the Trent will also power the aircraft’s first flight later this year.