Thai Airways International hit the headlines by making a monumental deal with Boeing, announcing order for at least 45 aircraft.
The airline confirmed on Wednesday, February 13 that the order, which includes options for additional jets, will see the new aircraft join its fleet between 2027 and 2033. This strategic investment comes at a crucial time for Boeing, offering a much-needed boost after recent accident on an Alaska Airlines flight that brought the company under intense scrutiny.
In a statement, Thai Airways emphasized the importance of this long-term acquisition plan, saying it is crucial to the gradual replacement of aging aircraft. The airline’s financial stability and anticipated liquidity are considered sufficient to support the acquisition within the stated timeframe, assuring interested parties that current debt repayment plans remain unchanged.
Despite challenges, including the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic, Thai Airways has shown signs of recovery, reporting its fourth consecutive quarterly profit in November. As the tourism sector recovers, the company intends to exit its recovery plan this year, buoyed by the prospect of a revitalized fleet.
The significance of this aircraft acquisition goes beyond mere expansion, as it underscores Thai Airways’ commitment to increasing operational efficiency and financial flexibility. By strengthening its fleet, the airline envisages capturing a significant share of air traffic, poised to generate incredible annual revenue in line with its renewal goals.
This landmark deal also sheds light on the competitive environment within the aerospace industry, with Boeing securing a significant victory over its rivals. As Thai Airways prepares to reveal more details at the Singapore Air Show, anticipation is building amid a flurry of recent aircraft orders, further strengthening Boeing’s position in the market, it reported Bangkok Post.
However, Boeing’s triumph comes amid ongoing challenges, particularly the aftermath of the Alaska Airlines incident, which prompted the temporary grounding of Boeing 737 Max aircraft. With increased scrutiny, Boeing faces increased scrutiny of its manufacturing practices and quality control measures.
Despite strict scrutiny from aviation regulators, Boeing remains steadfast in its commitment to ensuring safety and quality, despite adjusting production rates for the 737 Max aircraft following recent events.
ORIGINAL STORY: Thai Airways flies new Boeing 787 aircraft
Thai Airways soared to new heights with a firm order for 45 Boeings 787 nozzlespotentially increasing the work on the eye 80 aircraftin response to the increasing demand for international travelaccording to industry sources.
The deal, due to be formally unveiled later this month, is already shown in Boeing’s published order backlog as a contract for 45 planes with an unknown buyer. Boeing declined to comment on the case and referred questions to Thai Airways, which has yet to issue a response.
The aircraft will be powered by engines from GE Aerospace, which is a significant shift considering Thai Airways’ long-standing partnership with Britain’s Rolls-Royce. The move marks a new chapter for the Asian carrier and a win for GE, as the airline currently uses Rolls-Royce engines on its existing 787 aircraft, according to the sources.
Industry sources indicated that engine negotiations had spilled over to aircraft selection, revealing that Thai Airways’ decision to ditch the Airbus A350 in favor of the 787 was partly influenced by a disagreement over engine maintenance costs with Rolls-Royce, Reuters reported.
Rolls-Royce, GE and Airbus declined to comment on the matter.
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