Anyone Know What Vs Are Buying

[sevenforeseven]

I have heard Virgin are on the hunt for new aircraft. From what I gather Boeing have put forward a package for 777-300s.Can anyone shed some more light on this?

[Human Factor]

Let's hope it's the 777. It may mean an extra job opportunity for me when BA go bust next year! :suspect:

[scroggs]

This is not news! Virgin announced some time ago that they are looking for 12-18 new aircraft. It's likely that these aircraft are to replace older A340-300s (and possibly some older B744s) and to enable expansion such as the forthcoming Australia route.

I don't have an in to Virgin's procurement procedures, but common sense would suggest that, unless the aircraft are for different purposes than those already owned by the airline, there would have to be an extremely strong economic case for the airline to go for anything other than the A340 family, plus possibly converting the 6 A380 options to orders.

Virgin is not a large airline. It would seem illogical to introduce another new type to the airline at the same time as it's trying to introduce the A380, and has only just introduced the A340-600. Boeing will no doubt have been asked to give details on the B777-300ER, if only to keep Airbus honest - but, don't forget, all this competition between the B777 and the A346 was settled in Airbus's favour only a few years ago when Virgin ordered the A346. Unless something fundamental has changed about the economics of either aircraft (including lease rates), or Virgin is considering routes that the A340/B744/A380 are incapable of, I can't see the airline wishing to suffer the complications of a fourth type in a fleet of less than 50 aeroplanes.

[stormin norman]

Human Factor
so your the guy who empties the toilets then !

[akerosid]

Personally, I think more A340-600s are the most likely option.

However, SIA is reported to be close to a 777-300ER order and given its 49% stake in VS and the likelihood that good discounts could be obtained from Boeing with a sizeable order, a 773 order can't be ruled out.

With BA still considering the 773ER, next year might be a very good one for the aircraft!

[Hotel Mode]

777-300ER's order imminent apparantly. Branson will have to take his four engine for long haul claim elsewhere.

[BBK]

777 undoubtedly a very good aircraft but I think commonality with existing fleet (and maybe the finance package Airbus will offer!) will swing it the way of the 340-600.