Despite Doldrums, American Airlines Plans to Buy Dreamliners

Even as it battles fuel prices and a faltering economy, this country’s largest air carrier - American Airlines – has entered into an agreement to acquire 42 Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners. The fuel-efficient, ultra-long-range craft could eventually provide a significant chunk of the “lift” for American’s international customers.

American says it plans to take delivery of the initial batch of 42 from 2012 through 2018, and that after that it has the option to acquire 58 more 787s.

Look for many of these craft to be deployed internationally. They’ll not just help to replace older 767s, they are designed to bolster the kind of international growth the carrier hopes for should American Airlines, British Airways, and Iberia (Web site: www.iberia.com) get antitrust immunity for flights between North America and Europe.

American Airlines is a huge customer for Boeing. It’s notable that the carrier announced plans to acquire the 787s even as members of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers are in the midst of a crippling strike that has brought Dreamliner production to a standstill.

Airlines around the world are eager to get their hands on the 787. The airplane employs lightweight carbon composites. That means it’s projected to consume 20 percent less fuel than comparably sized current aircraft.

© Cheapflights Ltd Jerry Chandler