Airbus selger i Østen

Philippine Airlines announced today that it has placed a firm order with Airbus for the supply of “more than 50” aircraft, as part of its major fleet modernisation programme. The breakdown is believed to be 44 A321s and 10 A330-300s, worth a total of $7 billion at list prices, with deliveries due to commence next year.

The airline stated earlier this year that is in talks with various manufacturers about purchasing another 100 aircraft and is understood to be in negotiations with Boeing, as well as Airbus, concerning its next batch of orders.

    The Board of China Eastern revealed last week that its Hong Kong subsidiary Eastern Air has entered into “a shareholders agreement” with Qantas subsidiary Jetstar International to formally establish Jetstar Hong Kong.

Eastern and Jetstar International will hold an equal shareholding in the budget carrier. For fleet requirements, 18 A320s will be acquired over the first three years of operation.

In its announcement China Eastern said that the “low-cost airline market in Hong Kong has significant existing potential and room for growth, which provides the Company with opportunities for establishing a locally-based low-cost airline and developing the businesses in low-cost airline. The establishment and operation of Jetstar Hong Kong will take advantage of the Jetstar group’s rich experience in low-cost airline operations and industry expertise of both the Company and Qantas. It will lay a foundation for establishing a more comprehensive and broader cooperation for both the Company and Qantas in the future”.

An Air Operators Certificate for Jetstar Hong Kong has already been was applied for.