Qantas Airways said it had put in place contingencies to alleviate possible capacity constraints caused by the further delay of the B787 Dreamliner. The Chief Executive Officer of Qantas Airways, Mr Geoff Dixon, said that Qantas was not surprised by the further delay announced by Boeing. “We are, however, very disappointed that Boeing has again delayed the delivery schedule. “That said, we did anticipate a further delay and have been working on contingencies for some time.”
Mr Dixon said Qantas had already secured a leasing agreement, subject to Board approval, for up to six A330 aircraft which would go into the Jetstar International operations. The Qantas Group now expects to receive its first B787-8 15 months after its original delivery date. Qantas is currently in discussions to lease further aircraft to ensure sufficient capacity for the needs of all airlines in the coming years. Mr Dixon said under its purchase agreement with Boeing, Qantas was entitled to substantial liquidated damages. “These funds will be used initially to offset the cost of lease agreements,” he said.
