Politics, my friend, politics.
Fra en kilde:
MAS have in the past year been considering replacing half of its current fleet of aircraft. In the near future,
MAS are expected to issue the long awaited Request for Proposals (RFPs) for the fleet renewal program:
1/ Replacement of entire fleet of 39 737-400s with approx. 40 firm/up to 20 options (possibly more) Airbus A320 or Boeing 737NG families.
2/ Replacement of all 10 Fokker 50s by new turboprops/regional jets. Bombardier or Embraer have already demonstrated the Dash 8 Q400 and Embraer 170, respectively, to
MAS in March this year.
The above 2 RFPs will go out late 2004/early 2005 and most likely simultaneously.
MAS are close to selecting the engine type for their 6 A380s on order, with Rolls Royce and Engine Alliance having submitted very competitive bids. Rolls Royce have already voiced their confidence in winning the engine contract. Announcement is expected by year-end.
MAS' first A380 is scheduled for delivery in January 2007.
MAS will also consider in 2005 the long-term replacement for the A330/B777 fleet.
MAS have been briefed on the 7E7 program while Airbus is expected to offer the A350 once it is officially launched.
At present, there has been no mention of the Airbus A340-500/600 or Boeing 777-200LR/777-300ER joining the fleet as
MAS have not committed to ultra-long haul plans.
The Twin Otter fleet is expected to remain for years to come.