17.08.05
One of the world's leading airlines is reported to be seeking millions of pounds in compensation from Airbus because of a delay in the delivery of its first A380 superjumbo. Singapore International Airlines (SIA) is talking to the aircraft manufacturer about possible compensation but has not ruled out bringing a lawsuit.
The airline has ordered 10 of the massive jets for delivery by 2008 and has taken an option on another 15. SIA plans to use the A380's on flights between Singapore, Sydney and London Heathrow.
However, reports in Singapore suggest the airline, the first A380 customer, is facing a delivery delay of 8 months on its first aircraft. Airbus has previously said that first A380 customers could face delivery delays of between 2 - 6 months. SIA has not released details of its negotiations, but some reports suggest it could be asking for more than £3m in compensation for the delay.
SIA's vice-president for public affairs, Stephen Forshaw, said one issue the airline will have to deal with is will be how to deal with high passenger loads during the affected period. He said: 'The delay of the aircraft of about eight months causes a capacity crunch for us during next year.' He said the airline may have to extend the leases on some Boeing 747 aircraft to provide cover.
Australian airline Qantas, another carrier which had ordered the superjumbo, is also angry about the delays. It is considering the compensation issue too.
