United places 50 firm orders with Airbus and Boeing

UNITED Airlines has placed firm orders for 25 Airbus A350 extra wide-bodied aircraft and 25 Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft, and has also clinched future purchase rights for 50 of each aircraft.

The carrier expects to take delivery of the aircraft between 2016 and 2019.

"Over the last few years we have made fundamental improvements in United's performance, delivering excellent cost control while improving the quality and reliability of our product. This aircraft order is another significant step on the path to position United for long-term success in a highly competitive global market," said Glenn Tilton, chairman, president and CEO of UAL Corporation, the carrier's parent.

The new technology aircraft will enable the airline to cut operating costs, reduce fuel burn and environmental impact and service a wider range of international destinations, owing to their smaller size, longer range and lower operating costs than the Boeing 747s and 767s they will replace.

"These 50 new aircraft will reduce the average seat count 19 per cent compared to the aircraft they will replace, and 10 per cent when averaged over the entire international fleet," the carrier said in a statement.

United estimates the 50 new aircraft will reduce its fuel costs and carbon emissions 33 per cent. It also expects average lifetime maintenance costs for the new aircraft to be 40 per cent lower per available seat mile than the aircraft that will be retired.

Furthermore, the A350 is said to have a range 11 per cent greater than the current B747, and the B787 has a range 32 per cent greater than the current B767.

"The orders require minimal capital over the next few years but ensure we will have the right planes to strengthen our global network over the next decade," said CFO Kathryn Mikells.

United last took delivery of aircraft in 2002, and last ordered aircraft in 1998.
 

Source: SchedNet