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....?

[Owen H]

Or lease them a 767 or two given there's some parked in the desert?

That'd be quite funny to see!

[Nigel C]

It wouldn't be the first time Virgin Blue has had an odd liveried bird, but that idea would take 'odd' to a whole new level.

[Zac M]

Originally Posted by Owen H

Or lease them a 767 or two given there's some parked in the desert?

That'd be quite funny to see!

If you are referring to the Qantas 763s, they have actually been sold for freighters (OGA, OGC and OGD that is)

[Owen H]

Indeed they have. Plenty more where they came from though