China Airlines signs LOI
December 11, 2007, Taipei, Taiwan – The Board of Directors of China Airlines today approved to sign a Letter of Intent (LOI) with Airbus for the purchase of twenty A350-900s, a brand-new generation of medium-capacity long-haul jetliners. The move re-affirms China Airlines determination to improve and modernize its fleet, expand its markets, and meet passenger demand, in order to strengthen its position as a national carrier and to enhance Taiwan’s role as a regional Asia-Pacific aviation hub. This LOI signed by China Airlines includes fourteen firm orders and six options, at a total list price of US$4.2 billion. These advanced modern airplanes will be introduced from 2015 to 2020, replacing the current A340-300 fleet and expand the mid-haul and long-haul services. The latest technology British Rolls-Royce Trent 1883 engines will power the new jetliners. For pilot operation, the A350-900 has high commonality with China Airlines A340 and A330 aircraft, which will save substantial training costs through a pilot transitioning program. Hence the new jetliners will provide a two-class service, including Business and Economy class, with a higher capacity of revenue passenger volume than the Airbus 340 and 330, and providing a new experience of comfort for its passengers. Informationen unter: www.china-airlines.de |