Boeing B 747 returned to service
It is a further sign of the global recovery in air traffic. Several companies have decided to return to service wide body aircraft they had left their fleet at the height of the crisis. These appliances over 400 people landed in the Mojave Desert (southern California), the biggest aircraft graveyard in the world, who also serves as a giant car park for all airlines. In late 2009, the AOG stock peaked at 3,700 units or 11% of the world fleet (19,000 had approximately). But last June, and for the first time since early 2009, the number of widebody taken by their owner has exceeded that of the aircraft were parked. Of the 200 units withdrawn from storage, 25% were Boeing 747, according to research firm specializing Ascent Worldwide.
The companies are currently preparing the 2010-2011 winter season, which opens on November 1 and lasts six months.And they have decided to increase their capacity. British Airways will offer 7% more seats than in the same season in 2009-2010. The British company will provide such a service between London and Dallas 747, which allows him to release a 777 on the London-New York. Lufthansa, meanwhile, plans to resume a jumbo jet that had put the garage in Germany after having taken a dozen short-haul type B737 and A320. Asian companies are not far behind. Cathay Pacific has recalled five widebody freighter version, four of which will particularly strengthen the fleet of Air China, the Hong Kong whose company owns 49% stake.
Planes cheaper
The return of wide-body aircraft in the fleet remains measured, under the strong rebound in traffic.It has increased 12% for passengers and 27% for freight in June, according to the International Association of Airlines (IATA). "The danger is to increase capacity too fast and too strong," responds Chris Tarry, an aviation consultant based in London. Conversely, a company that does not deploy enough capacity might miss the train of recovery. All are therefore seeking the right balance.
At Air France, the question also arises, but the company continues, against the current trend observed by Ascent Worldwide, out of its B747 fleet. Nothing illogical. On the contrary: "We are entering our fleet of planes more modern, more economical and more environmentally friendly, as the A380. And we are strengthening our fleet of B777-300, "said a spokeswoman for Air France.And remember that the A380 is an annual operating savings of 15 million euros compared to 747.
Air France has already stripped of three B747. A fourth will join them from November. There are still thirteen 747, including ten in the passenger version in service with the French company, but they are headed in starting with the rise of the A380. The company has received mid-August his fourth super-jumbo, which will link Paris and Tokyo from September 1. The fifth A380 scheduled to enter service next April. Meanwhile, Air France is increasing its fleet of B777, a jumbo jet she ordered two versions: long-haul and Caribbean-Indian Ocean.