FYI - for Trans Pacific watchers - this does not bode well for award availability on what was up till now the easiest to find!
United Airlines will replace its ageing Boeing 747-400 jumbos on the Australia-US route with Boeing 777 long-range aircraft early next year, in a move which will reduce capacity on one of this country's main international air routes.
The US airline announced on Monday (08/19/13) that its 777 aircraft will replace the jumbos making the daily flights from Sydney and Melbourne to San Francisco and Los Angeles on April 1.
United’s decision to opt for smaller aircraft will reduce capacity on the trans-Pacific route, which is likely to lead to a boost in yields – or return on fares – for it and its competitors.
The jumbos seat a total of 374 passengers whereas United’s Boeing 777s accommodate 269 in three cabins – first, business and economy classes.