Qantas Airways (QAN) said it is entitled to compensation following the latest bout of delays in delivery of the B787 Dreamliner aircrafts.
Qantas Chief Executive Geoff Dixon said Qantas was not surprised by the further delay announced by Boeing.
He said under its purchase agreement with Boeing, Qantas was entitled to substantial liquidated damages. In the meantime, it has secured a leasing agreement.
“These funds will be used initially to offset the cost of lease agreements,” he said.
The flag carrier ordered 65 form orders of the Dreamliners.
“We are however, very disappointed that Boeing has again delayed the delivery schedule,” he said.
“That said, we did anticipate a further delay and have been working on contingencies for some time.”
Mr Dixon said Qantas had already secured a leasing agreement, subject to board approval, for up to six A330 aircraft which would go into the Jetstar International operations.
Mr Dixon said the Qantas Group now expected to receive its first B787 15 months after its original delivery date.
“We are currently in discussions to lease further aircraft to ensure sufficient capacity for the needs of all our airlines in the coming years.”
Qantas is not the only airline carrier affected by the delay. More than 50 airlines and leasing companies have ordered Boeing Co’s new 787 Dreamliner and many will have to rethink their fleet plans.
Qantas shares lost 14 cents to $3.69.
