08.12.2009
The third-largest airline in the US United Airlines has announced it has placed 50 orders with Airbus and Boeing for new aircraft.
The carrier said it is has ordered 25 Airbus A350 XWB aircraft and 25 Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft (pictured), and has future purchase rights for 50 of each aircraft.
United Airlines said the move would allow it to reduce operating costs and better match its aircraft to the key markets it serves.
“The new technology aircraft will reduce fuel burn and environmental impact, while enabling service to a broader array of international destinations,” the airline said. The new planes are smaller in size and have a longer range and lower operating costs.
United expects to take delivery of the aircraft between 2016 and 2019. At the same time it will retire its international Boeing 747s and 767s.
The 50 new aircraft will reduce the average seat count by about 19pc compared to the aircraft they will replace, and by about 10pc when averaged over the entire international fleet.
United last took delivery of aircraft in 2002, and last ordered aircraft in 1998.
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