Royal Jordanian has selected the Boeing 787 for its long-haul fleet replacement and intends to acquire at least four or five of the type from 2010.

The Jordanian flag carrier looked at the 787 along with the Airbus A350 to replace its four A340-200s operating long-haul services. Chief executive Samer Majali says the airline is in discussions with Boeing and lessors to supply the twinjets.

The airline is also looking at replacing its ageing A310s from 2011 and indicates that, if necessary, it will increase the number of 787s it plans to acquire. Majali has previously said Royal Jordanian could take eight to 10 aircraft.

Royal Jordanian's selection of the 787 would mark a return to operating Boeing aircraft after several years as an all-Airbus carrier, although that changed recently when the airline introduced its first Embraer 195 regional jet.

It came close to buying a batch of Boeing 737-800s two years ago before abandoning the plan in favour of Airbus A320-family jets.




Source: Flight International