CAPE TOWN: Lufthansa is in "advanced discussions" with Airbus and Boeing to buy around 50 long-haul jets, Chief Executive Christoph Franz said.
The German airline is evaluating Boeing's 777 and 787 families, including a new stretched version of the 787 Dreamliner, and the Airbus A350, he said in an interview.
He predicted a decision in the second half of the year, effectively ruling out Lufthansa emerging as a launch customer for the latest 787 model at the June 17-23 Paris air show.
Franz also adopted a softer tone towards rival Gulf carriers, saying he would not rule out commercial ties with one of the region's fast-growing airlines if it brought benefits to Lufthansa, but said he was in "no rush" to take a decision. (Reuters)
