During the coronavirus outbreak, different airlines have implemented various plans to minimize their cost. In Europe, several flag carriers decided to retire part of their fleet. Back in Asia, reports are saying Cathay Pacific has extended the lease on more than a dozen of 77W by a decade!
The question might be raised: “What’s the matter between extending the lease & cancelling the 77X orders?”
You should first familiarize yourselves with Cathay’s background. A few years ago, CX decided to replace their ageing fleet while adding numbers of destination. XWBs had been delivered to replace the A340s, 772s & 747s. Besides, they ordered 21 777-9s to be their new flagship a/c in the coming decade and replacing some ageing 77Ws. In fact, Cathay was expected to introduce new first-class suites on these latest a/c. Here comes the answer, 77X are expected to replace the existing 77W. However, Cathay decided to keep the current 77W. There’s no reason why Cathay
should receive more widebodies especially during these hard times.
So… Will Cathay cancel their 77X orders or just simply delaying it? Comment below and have a chat :)