Cathay Pacific (CX) has confirmed it will acquire 30 Airbus A350-900 aircraft, worth HK$75 billion (US$9.6 billion), for use on non-stop routes to Europe and North America.
Media reports in June (see news) quoted CX chief executive Tony Tyler admitting they were “evaluating the new-generation A350 and Boeing B777”.
The new A350XWB (extra-wide body) will form the backbone of the airline’s future mid-size wide-body fleet. Deliveries will be made between 2015 and 2019. Tyler described the purchases as “fuel efficient, environmentally friendly and provides the capacity, range and operating economics that we need to complement and enhance our existing fleet.
From Airbus’ rival Boeing, CX is planning to order six more B777-300ER aircraft in addition to 30 of this aircraft type that is already on firm order. The B777-300ERs will be deployed on ultra long-haul and long-haul routes in North America and Europe.
The investment in intended aircraft purchases is in addition to significant sums that CX will make between now and 2013 that includes aicraft already on firm order, the new cargo terminal at Hong Kong International Airport and enhanced products in the cabin and on the ground.
For more, visit www.cathaypacific.com
Margie T Logarta
