Boeing has suffered another blow. Australian flag carrier Qantas has opted for the Airbus A350-1000 as its preferred plane to operate ultra-long haul flights to New York City and London.
It came down to a simple choice between the modified A350 and Boeing’s 777X.
Qantas had pitted the plane makers against each other as it sought the best deal.
Still, it is not quite a done deal, as Qantas still has to decide whether to go ahead with the ultra-long haul ‘Project Sunrise’ program.
Apart from determining its financial feasibility there are numerous other challenges such as regulatory issues and new contract negotiations for flight crew.
"No orders have been placed but Qantas will work closely with Airbus to prepare contract terms for up to 12 aircraft ahead of a final decision by the Qantas board." The airline said.
That will come in March 2020, it said.
The A350 will be fitted with an extra fuel tank and its maximum take-off weight will be increased.
"The deal on the table with Airbus gives us the best possible combination of commercial terms, fuel efficiency, operating cost and customer experience," said Qantas Group CEO Alan Joyce.
