Sonny, You are both incorrect and overly pessimistic. The first 15 B787's are -8 versions which initially go to Jetstar Intl but as Jetstar start receiving the -9 version the -8s are progressively transferred to mainline for use on domestic/Tasman routes (replacing some of the older B767's). Jetstar Intl configuration (seating, IFE etc) is virtually identical to mainline domestic so no configuration changes will be required. The Jetstar paintscheme will probably be a white hull to minimise costs when transferring aircraft.
After Jetstar has received 15 B787-9's, then deliveries of the -9 version to mainline will commence. Management have identified a number of new destinations that are business oriented and therefore suited to the mainline product - not Jetstar's product which is aimed at holiday makers and Visiting Friends & Relatives (VFR) ie low yield markets. The -9's in mainline service will be in two configurations - a 3 class and a 2 class (not counting the premium economy seating as a separate class). With the number of city pairs that management want to fly then it's possible for mainline to end up with 55 B789's and 15 B788's (replacing 29 B767's). That's before you start discussing B787-10's or A350's to replace later B744's from 2012 on (possibly as many as 30).
The A332's currently flown by Jetstar will return to mainline when Jetstar start receiving the B787-8's. Additionally, more A332's will be delivered from Airbus so mainline will end up with 12 A332's in addition to the 10 A333's.
The B743's and some of the B744's will be replaced by 20 A380's.
All up there will be a significant increase in hull numbers resulting in massive amount of promotion training and many more pilots required (minimum of 12-15 pilots every month for 3 years). Careers are finally getting back on track for mainline pilots.
Last edited by Going Boeing; 23rd Jul 2007 at 13:50.