Qantas raises jet demands
QANTAS Airways has revealed it has asked Boeing and Airbus to improve on their “best offers” for potential Project Sunrise aircraft, as the airline continues to negotiate with pilots to fly the ultralong-range missions.
The aircraft being considered for the proposed flights between Australia’s east coast and cities such as New York and London, include Boeing’s 777X-8 and Airbus’ A350-1000.
Speaking at a briefing for investors in Sydney yesterday, chief executive Alan Joyce said the aircraft manufacturers had been asked to “sharpen their pencils” but not just on price.
“We want them to look at guarantees,” said Mr Joyce.
“This aircraft is going to be in the fleet for the next 20 years, we want to make sure it’s future-proofed.”
Asked about negotiations with pilots for a new agreement to fly the routes, Mr Joyce said they had the most to gain from Project Sunrise.
“Growth in the international business brings promotional opportunities, and a promotion is the biggest pay rise they will get in their careers,” he said. “The current EBA doesn’t contemplate doing missions beyond 20 hours so we need a new agreement.”
Qantas International chief Tino La Spina revealed the airline was keen on the idea of “multi-variant” flying – that is, for pilots to operate more than one aircraft type.
Qantas Domestic chief Andrew David said delivery of new 787-9s, which would be completed next year, had created opportunities for growth and promotion for pilots.