Austrian Airlines is gearing up for a significant advancement in its long-haul operations this summer with the introduction of the Boeing 787 Dreamliner to its fleet. The airline is expecting to receive its first and second 787s by the end of February, with their entry-to-service anticipated by late June or early July. The new aircraft will enable Austrian Airlines to expand its network, including launching a new route to Boston. The airline's CEO, Annette Mann, has confirmed that the first Dreamliner will primarily be used to enhance the existing long-haul schedule, while the second Dreamliner will facilitate the addition of Boston to its network.
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The airline plans to launch a new route between Vienna International Airport (VIE) and Boston in July using its Boeing 767 fleet. It is not yet clear if Austrian plans to use its Dreamliners on this route, but CEO Mann has confirmed they will be ready for the first long-haul flights to North America in "late June / early July". The 787 Dreamliner is set to replace Austria's aging Boeing 767 and 777 fleet. The airline currently operates three 767-300s and six 777-200s, with an average age nearing 24 years. However, the Dreamliners won't be direct replacements as they arrive. Austrian will continue to operate its 767s and 777s for the time being, using the new Dreamliners to open up additional routes, as it did with Boston.
This means the carrier's long-haul fleet will grow from nine to 11 aircraft, a process that Mann described as, "a major stretch for our whole organization, but we're all very motivated to make that happen". Once Austrian's new Dreamliners arrive, they will undergo the usual testing and technical work before an anticipated entry into service in the summer. Austrian pilots have already begun simulator training, with the Dreamliner expected to begin line training flights on short-haul routes in May.
With the introduction of the Dreamliner, Austrian Airlines is not only modernizing its fleet but also setting a course for growth. The new aircraft will significantly contribute to reducing CO2 emissions and offer enhanced comfort for guests. As Austrian Airlines embarks on this new chapter, the aviation industry will be watching with keen interest.