Qantas B767-200ER - Why downgraded MTOW?
 

Just wondered, why the Qantas operated B767-200ER have a reduced MTOW of 320,000Ibs instead of the 324,000Ibs they had when originally bought by Qantas. Any reason for that?

Is it possible to increase the MTOW again?

Thanks!

Hi ChiefT,
It's not really uncommon for airlines throughout the world to have the MTOW certification "derated", CX did it with their B747 Classics near the end of their service.
It is done because airports charge their landing fees according to the MTOW at which the aircraft is certified, i.e. the lower the certified MTOW, the lower the landing fees, regardless of the actual AUW of the airplane.

Hope this helps,
Cheers

@ Flight Detent

Thanks for the information. So this lowering of the MTOW means only paperwork and the aircraft could be recertified? Thanks for the help!

I believe it is also the enroute charges that are reduced slightly as well (also calculated on a/c MTOW).

...but increasing the MTOW (for the first time) will cost you money. Boeing will apply a formula that reflects the estimated life remaining over which the benefits of the weight increase will be used, and the amount of the increase. On B737-200s to go from 54,204 kgs to 55,111 (I think) cost me about $25k per ship - because they were already old.

The reason would most likely be reduced Air Navigation Charges and/or landing fees.
I believe the original Ansett fleet of 767-200's were operated at 140,613 KG (Approx 310,000 lbs) and their 200ER varied from 159,000 KG to 140,613 KG , depending on it doing International or Domestic flights, thereby saving some bucks!