The decision by SAS on a possible replacement for its long-haul fleet of 14 Boeing 767s is now not expected until 1998. A final decision could run into 1999 as the airline looks hard at the cost justification for the investment.
The Scandinavian airline expects to take 15-20 aircraft in the 250- to 300-seat class, with the Airbus A340 and Boeing 777-200IGW as the lead contenders, although SAS is also considering the option of using new 767s or retaining its existing fleet (Flight International, 21-27 February, 1996).
A decision had been expected this year, but SAS stresses that there is now no prospect of an order until 1998 and that it "could wait until 1999".
"We're starting to ask for proposals," says vice-president of fleet development Kurt Kühne, but adds that offers are not expected until at least the beginning of 1998.
Studies are concentrating on whether traffic growth will justify the size of the new investment and the increase in capacity over the 190-seat intercontinental 767 fleet.
Kühne says that an important consideration centres on the payload range, with a requirement to carry up to 20t of cargo on intercontinental routes. "We've also asked for the right price," the vice-president adds.
SAS also says that an "important decision" on its 69-strong Boeing MD-80/90 fleet also will be taken "in the near future".
Source: Flight International
