Virgin Blue Eyeing B767s or ex-Emirates A330s

[Will H]

Thought you all might like this.

Virgin Blue is reportedly looking into acquiring B767-300s or ex-Emirates A330-200s with an operational start from next February.

First 3-class B737 is also reportedly expected to be delivered in 2 months.

http://www.flightglobal.com/blogs/wi...y-options.html

[Nigel C]

Without wading through a blog, I trust they'd be used for international ops? Because there sure isn't room in Sydney for domestic ops unless they pushed JetStar off Bay 49 or used bussing operations only.

[Dale C]

Does anyone know if VA can convert their 777 options(6 I think?) to 763s?
If so, and they can get new builds quickly, that may be the way to go.
To me, if they are to be used domestically as well, the 763 model is better than the 332, which will really struggle domestically for DJ, even though it will perform well regionally.
How old would the EK 332s be? Do they maintain their aircraft well as a general rule? I ask mainly in regards to say a 10yo 332, where it could be pretty tired and EK are ready to ditch it.
The tone of the article is very suggestive that any WB introduced next year will be an interim type until 787s arrive.

Dale.

[Michael Morrison]

I think 332's would be the better option and could be used to expand to Asia where the 777 is too big.

Perhaps even use the 332 to increase HKT frequencies then redploy the 777 to JNB/USA

[Owen H]

Nigel,

My bet would be for domestic ops.

They can't realistically compete with Qantas for business travel with only the 737, and the larger aircraft I would image are to provide service between the major ports (SYD - MEL, BNE, and PER)

Just my gut feeling though.

[Nigel C]

The T2 terminal extension (and Twy Charlie re-alignment) is due to begin soon, but it won't be complete for some time.

I wonder if Qantas would lease them a gate or two....?

[Will H]

Originally Posted by Nigel C

Without wading through a blog, I trust they'd be used for international ops? Because there sure isn't room in Sydney for domestic ops unless they pushed JetStar off Bay 49 or used bussing operations only.

Sometimes it's worth wading through.

While the widebody aircraft are expected to join Virgin Blue's fleet under the international V Australia banner, the source says it is expected they will also fly on domestic trunk routes. Although Virgin Blue's present domestic gate space at Sydney airport is inadequate for widebody aircraft, the source says the airport has made "accommodations" and is now suitable for the A330 and B767.

[Oliver Gigacz]

Can Melbourne (T3) and Brisbane (Virgin Domestic) accommodate B767s and A330s?

[Skip Fulton]

Melbourne can take the B777 so yes. Brisbane can I think but needs adjustments to aerobridges

[Jason Carruthers]

BNE is capable of handling at least 2-3 767's at any given time. Gate 40 has seen 747's during the 767 Groundings.