Citing supplier delays, American Airlines told employees on Tuesday that delivery of their first Boeing 777-300ER will be put off until early 2013.
A spokesman for the airline tells NYCAviation that the problem stems from first class suite supplier Zodiac Seats UK. Asked to elaborate, the spokesman said that “there are production issues related to the customer experience that needed to be fine-tuned, and … [American is] … working closely with Zodiac to make those adjustments.”
The delay of the hotly anticipated addition to the fleet has forced American to push back the target date for their inaugural Dallas-Sao Paulo service, now targeted for January 31, 2013. Customers who had previously purchased tickets on flights through January 30 will be switched over to AA’s current flagship aircraft, the Boeing 777-200ER. Those who specifically purchased the flight for the 777-300ER experience will be offered free rebooking or full refunds.
The aircraft has generated significant buzz within the aviation community as the new airplane is intended to signify the beginning of a rebirth for the Dallas-based carrier, which has been fighting its share of demons over the years. In particular is the roll-out of a brand new cabin interior, focusing on revamped first class suites and an updated business class, along with a new premium economy option to be known as Main Cabin Select. Doubly interesting is the rebrand to come with it. While details are still unknown, recent pictures surfacing from the Boeing factory outside Seattle indicate that the 777-300ER will be the first to wear a new American Airlines livery.
American has 10 777-300ERs on order and once introduced, will be the first and only US-based carrier to operate the type.
