MURDO MORRISON / LONDON
CSA will finalise its widebody fleet renewal plans in the next two months and re-evaluate the Embraer 170 for its regional needs.
The Czech flag carrier is studying the Airbus A330 and Boeing 767 to replace its two Airbus A310-300s between 2005 and 2007. The longer-range aircraft will open up new routes from Prague such as the Atlanta and Cincinnati hubs of SkyTeam partner Delta Air Lines, as well as cities in Asia. The airline has had a presentation from Boeing on the proposed 7E7 widebody.
CSA's short-haul fleet comprises nine ATR 42/72s and 21 Boeing 737-400/500s. The airline had selected the Fairchild Dornier 728 regional jet and held orders and lease deals for eight aircraft, but was forced to cancel plans when the manufacturer ceased trading. CSA says it will "look closely" at the Embraer 170's performance with SkyTeam partner Alitalia when it enters service this year, before deciding on an eight-aircraft deal (including four leases). The airline is celebrating its 80th anniversary this year with a commemorative scheme on a Boeing 737-500.
Source: Flight International
