United Airlines orders 50 next-gen aircraft

United Airlines has confirmed an order for 50 next-generation aircraft.

The carrier said that the 25 Airbus A350 XWB and 25 Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft will enable it to cut operating costs, reduce fuel burn and lessen its environmental impact.

Passengers are expected to benefit from higher levels of cabin comfort and services to a wider range of international destinations.

The new aircraft are set to be delivered between 2016 and 2019, when United Airlines will retire its Boeing 747s and 767s.

Glenn Tilton, president and chief executive of the company, said: "Over the last few years we have made fundamental improvements in United's performance, delivering excellent cost control while improving the quality and reliability of our product.

"This aircraft order is another significant step on the path to position United for long-term success in a highly competitive global market."

The airline will be expanding its presence in Europe next summer with the launch of new flights to Rome from Chicago.

Posted by Teddie, 09 December 2009 10:07

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