Sir Donald
18th Jun 2003, 20:43
Would anybody be kind enough to explain why does CX operate a mixed fleet of two engined and four engined aircraft from two different manufacturers, instead of having just the one manufacturer/supplier. Advantages/disadvantages?
Eg:B747-400 and B777-200/300.
No SMART-A*S answers please.
Thanks in advance!
A-V-8R
18th Jun 2003, 21:06
I think it has something to do with the leases of the aircraft......
Airbus is absolutely notorious for letting their aircraft go for a song. JetBlue in the US is a great example, they have been in business for 2-3 years but only as of this year had they had to make payments on the aircraft. Terminal leases are free also "to promote compition."
Big change at my carrier happinging now, used to be the cost per mile of the 777 was $15, the 747-400 $30.
Now, in bankruptcy, the 747 leases are 1/3 of what they used to be, the pay for pilots is exactly what a 777 pilot makes, so they are pulling 40 airplanes out of the desert and getting ready to turn in some 777's.
These "free airplanes" that show up now and then really upset the applecart for established companies.