Jetstar Cuts Dreamliner Order

Qantas has announced that it has cut the order to purchase Boeing 787 Dreamliner. Earmarkef for its subsidiary airline Jetstar, the original order was 15 Dreamliner but is now reduce to 14.

The Dreamliner would replace the 11 Airbus A330s of Jetstar.

Qantas said the decision to cut order is a reflection of its slower growth forecast for Jetstar’s long-haul routes. The company denied that the cut is because of the problems hounding Dreamliner.

Qantas chief executive Alan Joyce said plans to grow Jetstar remains in full force. He added that Qantas is also leasing some five Boeing 717 aircraft, including Bombardier Q400 turboprops.

Two days ago, airline regulators grounded all 50 Dreamliner passenger jets as they investigate battery-related concerns. The US Federal Aviation Administration and the European Aviation Safety Agency said safety checks would be conducted specifically on Dreamliner’s lithium ion batteries.

Prior to the grounding, an All Nippon Airways plane conducted an emergency landing for a battery fault. Fire smoke also occurred in one of its electrical compartments.

Boeing agreed to the directive but reiterated its confidence over the safety of its 787 fleet. Boeing chief executive Jim McNerney said the company would take all necessary steps to assure the public and ensure 787’s safety.