Qantas announced it would receive the first of 50 Boeing 787 Dreamliners – 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 its international operations.
Qantas Chief Executive Officer, Mr Alan Joyce, said the Qantas Group had firm orders for 50 B787s in place, and remained the second largest airline customer for the Dreamliner.
“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,” Mr Joyce said.
“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.
“The 787s will also deliver benefits for passengers with larger windows, higher humidity and a lower cabin altitude pressure improving the flying experience.”
The change to the Group’s B787 order will see*:
– Qantas Group firm orders remain at 50 aircraft, comprising 15 B787-8s and 35 B787-9s;
– the first eight aircraft – all B787-8s – delivered from mid-2012;
– the remaining seven B787-8s, along with 35 B787-9s, to follow from 2014, allowing for the retirement of Qantas’ remaining B767-300ER fleet and providing for international growth for Jetstar or Qantas; and
– 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.
Jetstar will configure the B787-8 fleet for its low fare international operations to accommodate 313 passengers in two classes that includes its international business class, StarClass.
