News
Lufthansa close to large jet order with Boeing, Airbus
Sept. 18, 2013, Berlin, Ger. - German flag carrier Lufthansa is set to place a long-awaited order with Airbus and Boeing for several long-distance jets next week.
September 18, 2013 By aerospace-technology.com
The planned order follows contest between the two aircraft makers for nearly 50 planes that will renew the airline's long-haul fleet, Reuters reported citing undisclosed sources.
Lufthansa spokesman told the news agency that the company is deep in negotiations with manufacturers about ordering long-haul jets.
"Once a decision has been made, the management will pass the matter to the supervisory board for a decision; that has not yet happened," the spokesman said.
"Once a decision has been made, the management will pass the matter to the supervisory board for a decision."
The order is expected to include the first public commitment to buy a revamped version of Boeing 777 mini-jumbo that is code-named 777-9X.
Scheduled for launch this year, the 406-seat Boeing 777-9X features new engines and wings.
The German flag carrier is also expected to order nearly 20-25 smaller Airbus A350-900 aircraft, the 314-seat model aircraft that is scheduled to begin operations in the second half of 2014.
In March this year, the airline approved purchases of 108 smaller aircraft, dominated by a 100-aircraft order for medium-distance planes awarded to Airbus.
Previously, Lufthansa had also expressed interest in purchasing the 787 Dreamliner in spite of the plane's recent technical problems.
Lufthansa is the world's fourth largest airline in terms of overall passengers carried, offering services to 18 domestic destinations and 197 international destinations in 78 countries worldwide.
The latest planned order is part of the airline's aim to revamp its diverse fleet, including some ageing Airbus A340 and Boeing 767 aircraft.
