Continental Airlines acknowledged today that the Boeing machinists strike could impact the delivery schedule for its 787s.
The US major originally expected to take delivery of its first 787 in spring 2009 but that was pushed back to fall 2010 as the programme was delayed.
"The Boeing strike could clearly cause that to move back further and so we'll just keep in contact with Boeing as they move forward with the programme," said Continental chairman and CEO Larry Kellner today during an earnings conference call to discuss the carrier's third quarter net loss of $236 million including exceptional charges.
He added, however, that while Boeing has had some challenges with the 787 programme "they have been great" about keeping management updated about the programme's progress.
Continental has standing orders for 17 787-9s and eight 787-8s.
The carrier had intended to inaugurate its New York-Shanghai service on 25 March 2009 with 787 aircraft. However, it will instead deploy Boeing 777 aircraft on the route.
Kellner assures that Continental is committed to serving New York-Shanghai despite decisions by other operators to delay their China plans in the face of an economic downturn. "We continue to believe we can make that market work," he says.
Yesterday, American Airlines became the fourth North American carrier to place a firm order for the twinjet, joining Continental, Air Canada and Northwest Airlines.
Source: Air Transport Intelligence news
