A340-500

[chinapattern]

Seems several airlines that operates them are removing them from their fleets;

- Airbus still have two stored that were intended for Kingfisher.
- TAM have stored their fleet of two
- Thai have stored their fleet of four.
- Etihad were rumoured to be selling theirs to Conviasa (although they have since announced their new service to Washington will be operated by this type)
- Emirates have plans to retire their fleet of ten.

As far as I know Singapore and Arik will continue to operate their fleets and their are a few VIP aircraft flying around. Who might likely pick up these planes? Could Conviasa go for the Thai birds? The only other airline I could see being interested is Aeorlineas Argentinas although they seem to be happy picking up older A343's at the moment. A shame to see all these lovely birds sitting idle.

[getonittt]

I agree that the A340-500 is a lovely looking aircraft but as with most niche designs the second hand market is pretty much non existent. The 737-600 & A318 being cases in point. Once those airlines you have mentioned have withdrawn their fleets they will be sent to PAMELA to be recycled.