No more Russian aircraft for the company

Published: 6/30/2000

Malev will replace its six Tu-154Bs next year, which, with an average age of 18 years, are the oldest aircraft in the Malev fleet. The sale will mark the end of the Hungarian carrier's use of Russian aircraft. The aircraft, which do not meet EU noise and emission requirements, will be replaced with a Boeing-767 to be leased, according to local press reports, in August. The airline also plans to lease additional Boeing-767 under a two-year programme in an effort to improve the its long distance capability. The airline continues its wrangles over privatisation with the Hungarian Privatisation Agency APV, which was due to submit a plan to the government by the end of the May. However, it sought an extension to allow their advisors ING Barings to make further recommendations relating to alliance membership and the privatisation programme.The leading alliance contender however, appears to be Skyteam following Air France's interest in the carrier earlier in the year.

Article ID: 1902