Qantas' new order will lift its 747-40
Qantas is evaluating the Airbus and Boeing 300-seat models, and has confirmed orders for three additional Boeing 747-400s, worth some A$650 million ($478 million)including engines and spares.
According to chief executive James Strong, Qantas has been studying closely its aircraft options for future route development, including the possible introduction of some 300-seaters. Qantas is known to have approached the pilots union to discuss introduction of new types, with the Airbus A340 and Boeing 777 in the frame.
"The studies will continue on the basis of achieving a strategy which will give reasonable returns, and a streamlined fleet structure," says Strong, adding that Qantas is not interested in tactics based merely on market share requiring every investment to "involve acceptable prospects for return on investment capital".
Qantas has long been associated with the 777, and is the only member of the original team of eight airlines enlisted by Boeing to define the big twin which has yet to place an order for the aircraft.
The three new 747-400s will be delivered in 1999 and 2000, boosting the airline's 747-400 fleet to 21. Qantas' entire 30 strong 747 fleet (including -200s, -300s, -400s and SPs) are Rolls-Royce RB.211-powered, but the airline has not indicated which engine type will power the new orders. Strong adds that there are no current plans to retire older long-haul aircraft from the fleet.
"These additional aircraft will meet anticipated increases in passenger traffic on current routes, and will also enable development of some possible new services," says Strong.
Source: Flight International
