UK leisure carrier Thomson Airways (part of TUI) was meant to be the UK launch carrier of the 787, with services commencing on the 1st May 2013.
However, this launch has been suspended due to the ongoing issues with the Boeing 787 and the batteries inside it that have been giving Boeing a major headache. Thomson Airways 787’s are not part of the “currently grounded fleet of aircraft”, but are in the “to be delivered” pool.
As such, there has been no time to homogenise or complete testing and training.
Thomson Airways say:
“We understand how frustrating and disappointing this news will be for those customers looking forward to flying on the 787 Dreamliner, we are equally as disappointed that Boeing was not able to confirm a delivery date for us but unfortunately these circumstances are out of our control,”
To fly on the 787, holiday makers had to pay an excess -this was £10 extra. Passengers will be refunded the £10, and for those in Premium – they will receive an extra payment of £80.
Holiday makers can also change their holiday plans without having to pay a supplement.
In the meantime, Thomson Airways will be flying people on 767’s until the 787’s are delivered.
As the 787 delays continue to impact, its turning slowly from an inconvenience to an operational worry for some airlines, with routes being cancelled or delayed, replacement plans being put on hold and airlines having to hire in equipment from elsewhere.
Whilst Boeing is promising a quick fix to the 787 if the changes are approved, there will be a lot of airlines and airline customers who will want a fix that delivers as permanent soultion as possible in the safest possible way.
I have nasty feeling that 787 operations will be on hold for some time yet to come…