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BA to renew long haul fleet
British Airways has called on Airbus and Boeing to put forward options to replace more than 30 ageing long haul aircraft.
The airline has issued tender documents to the aircraft manufacturers and engine makers as it seeks to secure the best deal. Each new aircraft will cost between $160 million-$316 million.
BA has kicked off the lengthy request for proposal process – a procedure it describes as a “competition” – because it faces a £2 billion pension black hole and needs to secure the best value deal.
BA has a fleet of 114 long haul aircraft. The first to be replaced early in the next decade will be 20 Boeing 747s and 14 B767s which will be around 25 years old. Orders are expected to be placed early next year.
Aircraft under consideration are the Airbus family of A330, A350 and A380 mega passenger aircraft and Boeing’s 787, 777 and 747-8.
BA chief executive Willie Walsh said: “Launching the competition highlights the need for us to address our £2.1 billion pension deficit. It is a major blocker to growth and investment in our business but I am confident we will resolve it.
“With a combination of firm orders and options, we are planning for both growth and fleet replacement into the next decade.
“Environmental performance will be one of the key criteria in our choice, ensuring greater fuel efficiency, reduced noise and emissions.”
Report by Phil Davies
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