Qantas to receive first B787 in mid-2012 for Jetstar's international operations
Qantas stated (14-Jul-2010) it would receive the first of 50 B787s on order, a B787-8 series aircraft in mid-2012. The change follows an agreement reached with Boeing to bring forward the delivery of eight B787-8s by "around two years". The first aircraft will be used by Jetstar for international operations. Changes to the group's B787 order include:
- Qantas Group firm orders remain at 50 aircraft, comprising 15 B787-8s and 35 B787-9s;
- First eight aircraft - all B787-8s - delivered from mid-2012;
- Remaining seven B787-8s, along with 35 B787-9s, to follow from 2014, allowing for retirement of Qantas' remaining B767-300ER fleet and providing for international growth for Jetstar or Qantas;
- Qantas retain the ability to purchase up to 50 additional aircraft.
The group's first 15 B787s will be delivered to Jetstar for international growth which will also enable the transfer of A330-200s from Jetstar to Qantas and the retirement of Qantas B767-300ERs. [more]
Qantas Group: "Today's announcement confirms that the B787, with its new technologies and improved fuel efficiency, is still very much the right aircraft for both Qantas and Jetstar. It will be ideal for point-to-point flying on medium-density routes, both short and long haul and will allow Jetstar to move into southern Europe as well as build on its Asian network. It will also be suitable for Qantas services into Asia and even for high-traffic routes on Qantas' domestic network. This is further confirmation that Qantas remains committed to growing both our airline brands by renewing our fleet and improving flexibility of our domestic and international operations. We will also continue to have the capability to maintain and grow our share of the Australian market. The phased delivery of 50 B787s will deliver lower operating and maintenance costs greater fuel efficiency and improved environmental performance to both airlines," Alan Joyce, CEO. Source: Company Statement, 14-Jul-2010.