European aircraft maker Airbus has announced a firm order with Saudi Arabian Airlines (Saudia) for 22 A320s, and a letter of intent with Taiwan”s largest carrier China Airlines for 14 A350-900s plus six on option.
”The A320s will enable Saudia to meet rising passenger demand and expectations,” said director general of Saudi Arabian Airlines Khalid A. Almolhem.
China Airlines will start using its A350s from 2015 on long-haul routes to Europe, Australia and the US, providing passengers with non-stop services.
”This will allow us to offer our customers the most attractive product and to meet the ever-rising cost of fuel,” said China Airlines chairman, Ringo K.S. Chao.
Meanwhile Boeing has confirmed its revised schedule for the new 787 Dreamliner, which will be delivered in November or December of 2008. This is six months behind its original schedule, but the company ” despite still ”ironing out significant supply-chain wrinkles" - says it plans to deliver 109 Dreamliners by the end of 2009.
Airbus has undertaken a costly redesign of its A350 so that it can compete with its American competitor”s 787 ” but it will not enter service until 2013.