Austrian Airlines will opt for the Boeing 787 Dreamliner to modernise its long-haul fleet. The Vienna-based carrier expects to take delivery of the first aircraft in early 2024 and to operate a total of ten by 2028.
As reported in a press release, the airplanes will be gradually transferred from existing Lufthansa Group orders. In this way, they will gradually replace the Boeing 767s and 777s currently in operation. The average age of both types now exceeds 22 years, so their operating cost is increasing.
See also: Austrian Airlines expands its European flight offer for the northern summer season
Austrian Airlines would introduce the Boeing 787 Dreamliner in summer 2024
While it did not specify in which month it expects to receive the first aircraft, scheduled operations would begin during next year’s northern summer season, allowing it to increase and improve offer at one of the peak periods for air travel.
Annette Mann, CEO of Austrian Airlines, said the company is «taking off to a new era of aircraft and is setting course for growth» with the new additions. «The fleet induction of ten Boeing 787-9 in the coming five years shows that we are fit for investments and the future», she remarked.
«With Boeing 787-9 we are bringing one of the most innovative long-haul models on the market to Austrian Airlines», commented Francesco Sciortino, CCO. «This is a team effort Austrian Airlines can be proud of», he added.
«We are happy that our guests will be able to enjoy the new travel comfort as of the expected maiden flight next summer», said Michael Trestl, the company’s CCO. He also highlighted the innovations of the aircraft introduced to commercial service at the beginning of the last decade, including the larger overhead storage compartments, the cabin lighting system and the possibility of individually dimmable window lighting.
