Austrian Airlines reconfirms need for reform

Austrian Airlines (AUA), in an extraordinary meeting of the supervisory board, reconfirmed (10-Feb-2012) the need for the company to undergo structural reform. "AUA can only reach flight altitude if we modernise our company. We need to get rid of outdated practices if we want to make the necessary investments - most importantly, the harmonisation of our medium-haul fleet and renewal of the cabins," CEO Jaan Albrecht said. Austrian Airlines has made progress in its work programme:

• Route network: The route network, with its focus on Eastern Europe and the Middle East, has been reworked, with details to be released this week;
• Suppliers: The carrier stated it has initiated talks with politicians, suppliers and Flughafen Wien regarding its current situation and future plans. "My talks have all been marked by reasonableness and understanding. The new airport management also proved in the initial talks that it has recognised Austrian Airlines as its future partner for growth and the strengthening of Vienna as a business location," Mr Albrecht said.
• Renewal of medium-haul fleet: Potential buyers have already been found for a sale of the 11 Boeing 737 and negotiations have been launched. At the same time, together with Lufthansa, Austrian Airlines has begun sounding out the market for the acquisition of seven A319/A320 aircraft and for four long-haul 777s in 2013/14.
• Modernisation of collective agreements: There has "not been much progress in the area of the newly planned collective agreements", the carrier said. Talks will be held this week with GPA labour union. [more - original PR]