Gulf Air may cut plane orders amid strategy review
Associated Press, 08.24.09
Gulf Air's new CEO says the Bahraini state carrier may need to adjust its orders for Boeing and Airbus aircraft as it struggles to turn itself around.
CEO Samer Majali said in an e-mailed statement Monday the airline has begun "a comprehensive review ... looking at every aspect of the business." It is eyeing "all potential avenues," including partnering with other carriers.
He says the airline's future size and shape are being reconsidered, and that means aircraft orders may need to be adjusted.
Gulf Air last year announced multibillion-dollar orders for 35 Airbus A320s and A330-300s, and up to 24 Boeing 787s.
Majali, formerly head of Royal Jordanian Airlines, is Gulf Air's third full-time CEO in as many years.
Source:
AFP