Skysurfin':
Will be interesting to see what sort of compensation they receive for the 787 delay.
Maybe the compensation runs to a good deal on
(like that hasn't been done before... ) or possibly covering any incremental costs (eg. training, maint) in running a new type?
Boeing have been itching for years to shift some 777s to QF (group). They could probably make production/delivery slots if need be, by ramping up production by an airframe or so a month; God knows the 747 line is at a trickle, and the 787 line now won't be ramping up for a while, freeing up some space and labour. It'd be a good way to make up for the delayed revenue due the delayed 787 deliveries. Also the loss of the 767 tanker contract means the space for that line isn't as crucial now.
I'd suggest there would also be a few carriers with big orders happy to reassess a slot or two as they cope with rising fuel prices and too few drivers (as gets regularly aired on PPRuNe).
Everett certainly isn't the same place it was ten years ago, when they were churning three models of wide-bodies out at a rate of knots.
Actually thinking a bit more about it, a few 777 frames in short order would make good sense if they replaced the 743s. There would also be no shortage of secondary-market takers amongst mid-ranking 777 operators who would like a few more frames but can't swallow the new-build cost - some well-maintained 5-y-o efforts would be perfect. Compensation by way of a leasing package (possibly ACMI if it's a relatively short period) from BAT could be just the ticket.