The Boeing 787 Dreamliner, known for its long-haul capabilities, is also being used on shorter routes by several airlines in 2025. This trend reflects strategic decisions to optimize fleet utilization and meet demand in specific markets.
Qantas uses the 787-9 for long flights such as Perth to London Heathrow, a journey lasting over 17 hours. However, some airlines are deploying the Dreamliner on routes under 100 miles. According to Cirium, TUI fly Netherlands operates the shortest scheduled route this year between Curaçao Hato International Airport and Bonaire's Flamingo International Airport, just 47 miles apart. This route will utilize Boeing 787-8 Dreamliners with nearly 12,000 seats available across both directions.
Ethiopian Airlines frequently uses its Dreamliners on short regional routes in West and Central Africa. The airline’s strategy involves using these flights as part of a hub-and-spoke model to connect regional traffic to its long-haul network via stopovers.