Aircraft

Austrian has become the first European carrier to take delivery of a Boeing 767 retrofitted with winglets.

The 767-300ER, registered OE-LAE, is a nine-year old airframe and underwent conversion in the USA. Winglets for the type were developed by Aviation Partners Boeing.

"We now enjoy a clear competitive advantage over other carriers," says the Vienna-based airline. It expects to save 1,000t of fuel per year and extend the range by 360nm (670km).

Austrian plans to convert three of the twin-jets by May this year.

© Austrian Airlines

"By using winglets we are caring for our environment and, at the same time, cutting back our fuel costs," says Austrian chief operaitons officer Peter Malanik.

Among the carriers refitting 767s with winglets are American Airlines, Air New Zealand, Condor, LAN and Hawaiian Airlines.