Iberia could delay the delivery of up to 15 Airbus aircraft due for delivery next year following the 11 September terrorist attacks on the USA. The revelation comes as the airline completes its narrowbody fleet renewal with the delivery of 15 Airbus aircraft.
The Spanish flag carrier says that nine Airbus A320s and three A321s and three A340s due for delivery next year "may not be feasible", although its passenger numbers are "less affected that those of British Airways". Iberia is also delaying the announcement of a replacement for its Boeing 747 fleet with either Airbus A340-600s or Boeing 777s. Talks have "shifted" to the first quarter of next year.
The arrival of 10 A320s, three A340s and two A321s this year complete the 62 new aircraft added since 1999. In the same period the airline has retired 64 aircraft including all its McDonnell Douglas DC-9s. The remaining Boeing 727s will be grounded later this month.
Source: Flight International
