Political considerations were an element in Vietnam Airlines' decision to obtain both the Boeing 787-9 and A350-900. Vietnam Airlines executive VP Le Hong Ha says that from an airline perspective, it is useful to have exposure to aircraft technology from both Europe and North America. He adds, however, that there was a political dimension behind the acquisition of two similar types, given the trade balance between Vietnam and the west. Vietnam is a major exporter of apparel, electronics, and other goods. "The govt still owns 80% of Vietnam Airlines and this has a strong influence on our decisions," says Le. "We are a national flag carrier." The A350 deal originated from an Oct 2007 memorandum of understanding, the 787s from a commitment with Boeing 1 month later. <br/>
sky
Tuesday, Delta Airlines is saying goodbye to the Queen of the Skies as the 747-400 returns from Seoul Incheon to Detroit. It will be the final passenger flight on a regularly scheduled route that Delta will ever operate with a 747. Once Delta’s farewell flights are complete later this month, the 747 passenger planes with a widget on the tail will completely disappear from the skies. Delta is the only remaining major domestic airline flying the passenger version of the iconic 747. United Airlines retired their fleet in November. The 747s will be brought to the airline boneyard in Arizona in January. Delta’s new flagship passenger plane is the Airbus A350. <br/>