Originally Posted by
rog747
I don't quite follow BA's reasoning to have another WB Twin Jet entering in the fleet when they have the 787 (in 2 sizes) and the 777 in 3 sizes...
What does the A350 bring to BA's table?
There will in fact be 3 variants of the 787 soon.
The long haul fleet will be;
A350-1000
A380-800
B747-400
B777-200ER
B777-300ER
B777-9
B787-8
B787-9
B787-10
The various different types allows BA to better send the correct size plane for it's mission. Taking in to account pax capacity / cargo capacity, range and airport capabilities. Whilst a uniform fleet may bring some savings with commonality in training and maintenence costs, BA are large enough and serve diverse enough route network to counteract that with what's mentioned above. Not only this but buying from the different suppliers also allows BA (IAG) to bid for the best deals with the likes of Airbus / Boeing and engine suppliers etc.
The A350-1000s were ultimately always for B747-400 replacements and offer both the range and capacity for their intended routes but more efficiently.
Eventually, i wouldn't be surprised to see further B787 series and A350 orders for B772ER replacements.