Lauda Air has ordered a further six Boeing Next Generation 737s and an additional 767-300ER in a $519 million deal with the US manufacturer.
The carrier, part of the Austrian Airlines group, will take delivery of the 767 in August. Two 737-600s and four 737-700s will be handed over between the first quarter of 2000 and 2002. The order also includes options for four 737-700s.
The narrowbodies will replace Lauda's seven 50-seat Bombardier Canadair Regional Jets (CRJs), which could be taken over by Austrian Airlines regional subsidiary Tyrolean Airways. Lauda Air is focusing primarily on short and long haul leisure routes.
Vienna-based Lauda operates two 777-200ERs, five 767-300ERs, two 737-300s, two -400s and a single -800, as well as its CRJs. A second -800 will be delivered later this year.
The airline cannot confirm an engine selection for the latest 767 order, although its existing fleet of the long-range twinjet is powered by the Pratt & Whitney PW4000. Next Generation 737s are equipped with the CFM International CFM56-7.
Austrian has a 36% stake in Lauda, with founder and president Niki Lauda holding 30% and German flag-carrier Lufthansa 20%. The remaining shares are held by small investors.
Source: Flight International
