No delay for THAI's 12 new A350s

THAI has opted not to postpone the delivery of a fleet of 12 A350s, the latest generation of airliner from Airbus, as considered earlier. The flag carrier seems more optimistic about its improving financial status and business outlook, the results of a painstaking rehabilitation, which obviates the need for a delay in taking delivery of the aircraft, said senior THAI executives. That means THAI is committed to receive the first two twin-engine A350s over the next two months or so and five each next year and in 2018, all under the originally agreed upon time frames. It remains unclear whether a contractual binding with the European aeroplane maker played a part in THAI's move to stick to the delivery schedule. The State Enterprises Policy Commission advocated THAI delay taking delivery of 14 new wide-body aircraft over the next three years to relieve some financial burdens weighing on the company's turnaround plan.<br/>