Cathay Pacific Places Largest Ever Order for New Aircraft

Cathay Pacific Airways has made commitments for 16 wide-body Boeing 777-300ER aircraft, with purchase rights for 20 more, and three Airbus A330-300s to operate regional routes. This significant order marks an exciting milestone in the airline's development, demonstrating its board's confidence in its long-term future. The new aircraft will enhance the airline's strength as a carrier and Hong Kong's position as a global hub and gateway to the Chinese Mainland.

Key Takeaways:

• Cathay Pacific has placed the largest ever order for new aircraft, committing to 16 Boeing 777-300ERs and three Airbus A330-300s.
• The 777-300ERs will be acquired through a combination of 12 direct purchases from Boeing and four operating leases from International Lease Finance Corporation (ILFC).
• The three new A330-300s will also be acquired via operating leases from ILFC.
• The 16 777-300ERs will be delivered between September 2007 and July 2010, while the three A330-300s will be delivered in 2008.
• Cathay Pacific's current fleet totals 95 aircraft, with a long-haul fleet comprising 22 Boeing 747-400, 15 Airbus A340-300, and three Airbus A340-600.
• The airline has firm orders for six Boeing 747-400BCF freighters and options for another six.
• Cathay Pacific's fleet will total 100 aircraft by September 2006, its 60th anniversary.

Statistics:

• The total value of the order for the 16 Boeing 777-300ERs is US$2.64 billion.
• The 16 777-300ERs will be powered by General Electric GE90-115B engines.
• The Airbus A330-300's will be powered by the Rolls-Royce Trent 700.
• Cathay Pacific's fleet currently operates 22 Boeing 747-400 aircraft, 15 Airbus A340-300 aircraft, and three Airbus A340-600 aircraft.
• The airline has outstanding orders for one Boeing 777-300 and three Airbus A330-300s and one 747-400.

Sources:

• "Cathay Pacific Airways places biggest ever order for new aircraft." Asia Pulse, Dec 2. ( Reporter's name not mentioned)
• None external, only Asia Pulse.