Warsaw (Puls Biznesu) – LOT, Poland’s flag carrier, has been for several months now trying to choose planes for its long-haul routes. The choice between Boeing 787 and Airbus 350 is to be made soon. “In a letter dated July 7th, the Ministry of Treasure asked the supervisory board of LOT to consider a possibility that the choice of fleet deliverer is evaluated by an independent expert”, Agnieszka Dluska from the press office in the Ministry said.
“LOT won’t comment on that at the present stage”, Leszek Chorzewski, LOT spokesman said. Airbus welcomed the decision of the ministry because Boeing was the favourite before. “This is a good idea to verify procedures and employ outside advisor. LOT is planning an IPO, so procedures concerning so important decisions are vital. Many airlines ask advisor for his opinion not to be suspected for being biased. I hope LOT will chose an experienced consulting company to evaluate the offers”, Andrzej Mierzwa, a partner in Concordia investment advisory company and Airbus advisor said. Boeing failed to comment on the news.
On July 11th, a special committee said that what the board prepared as recommendation for the supervisory board was correct. The recommendation was ready several months ago, and favoured Boeing’s offer. On April 26th, LOT management wrote a letter to Airbus, informing it would not take into consideration its offer. The supervisory board will probably learn about the 11th July opinion at its meeting on August 2nd.Poland/Enterprises/Airlines