Hi,
Johannesburg - Comair Limited operating as British Airways has announced that it will be acquiring three Boeing 737- 300 aircraft for R200m from Qantas Airways, the Australian airline.
The aircraft scheduled for monthly delivery in August, September and October 2003 will be replacing three of the airline's existing B737-200 aircraft as a part of its ongoing fleet replacement strategy.
The financing for the stage 3 noise compliant aircraft is being arranged by Investec Bank; with the first B737-300 - painted in British Airways livery - taking to the South African skies at the beginning of September.
Commenting on the new addition to the fleet, Comair Limited managing director, Piet van Hoven said: "As a replacement for the 737-200's, the forward-looking 737-300 offers more seats, better performance and fuel economy thus assisting us in reducing the exposure to fuel price fluctuations.
"In addition to better operating efficiencies and a much longer range than our existing fleet, the quietness of the aircraft engines was also one of the main considerations when we acquired the aircraft, as noise abatement regulations are imminent."
The 116-seater Boeing 737-300 offers a multitude of operator advantages beyond simply improving range and saving fuel. Environmental benefits include reduced noise on takeoff and landing, decreased engine emissions in flight and reduced engine maintenance requirements.
In addition to reliability, simplicity and economy in operation, the aircraft offers digital technology on the flight deck. These electronic systems provide concise flight information and reduce the crew's workload when landing the aircraft in bad weather.
British Airways (Domestic) pilots will undergo the cross training for the 737-300's at the company's local flight simulator centre to be ready for the first addition of the new aircraft in September.
The 33.4 metre-long aircraft, with a tail height of 11.1 metres and wingspan of 28.9 metres also offers roomy interiors, large overhead stowage bins for carry-on baggage, leather seats throughout the cabin and a total useable cargo volume of 30.23 m with the freight hold being accessible from the ground.
BAe 146-100
