kflyer2:
I am not with UL, or a proponent of their plans.
As for your questions re: A345 ..
1) There are a few A345 available, at rock bottom lease rates
2) A345 (especially the HGW version) are already kitted out in excellent interior, and are available for wet lease, as most available on the market were kitted out for 3 class layout.
3) Can seat 50 odd passengers more than A343
4) Can fly non-stop, for longer range, and faster than 343
5) Gives the chance to open up SL-US (subject to the slots still being available)
6) There is a higher fuel burn, compared to A332/333, but with the current low JetAv prices, does not matter much
As for your suggestion for opting for A332/333, A332/333 requires ETOPS rating, especially if it is non stop CMB-SYD or so for a smaller airline, A340 series works out better.
777 ? Those available on the market are non-er models, and would again negate the cost benefit with ETOPS issues.
And to book the A350 .. ?? haha
We can all dream .. right ???
