The Monarch Group has confirmed industry rumours that it has cancelled its order for six Boeing Dreamliners, the manufacturers’ next generation of long-haul aircraft.
Although the official announcement came today, the cancellation of the order has been spoken about in aviation circles for months, although flatly denied by sources close to Monarch.
The decision follows Monarch Airlines’ announcement in June that it intended to focus on schedule airline flying and on strengthening its short-haul network.
It also came after delivery of the new aircraft, which has been beset by development problems, would be delayed from the original date in 2010.
In a statement Monarch said: “The decision by The Monarch Group to terminate its order for the B787 does not affect Monarch Aircraft Engineering Ltd’s strategy to support the Dreamliner.
“Monarch Aircraft Engineering is proud to have been awarded Boeing GoldCare approval and is committed to providing line and base capability for the B787 from early 2012 in addition to its existing support of Boeing’s 737, 757, 767 and 777 aircraft.”
The airlines added that the new strategy announced in June was supported by “the introduction of new scheduled services to Cyprus (Paphos), Turkey (Antalya, Bodrum, Dalaman), Greece (Corfu), Spain (Barcelona) and Egypt (Sharm el Sheikh)”.
It continued: “Monarch Airlines will see further expansion into new UK bases and new routes from 2012, whilst remaining dedicated to supporting its long standing tour operator partner needs. Further consideration will be given to developing and strengthening its long-haul options in the future.”