Air France-KLM considers low-cost long-haul operations, A321LR order

Air France-KLM board of directors recently met to discuss their strategic options, which included establishing a long-haul low-cost unit, a restructure of its domestic unit, doubling the fleet of subsidiary Transavia France, ordering the A321LR, and the reconfiguration of its A380s.

The strategic plan is expected to be announced soon, with the incoming Group CEO tasked with the execution.

One option that on the table is the purchase of an existing airline, reportedly XL Airways as its shareholders are looking to exit. Such a deal would fast-track the launch of a long-haul low-cost unit.

Meanwhile subsidiary Transavia France, which currently operates 33 aircraft, is looking to expand its fleet to 70 aircraft, pending a new agreement with Air France pilots' unions.

The mainline fleet of Air France may also place an order for the A321LR and potential XLR for placement on transatlantic flights, with any such an order likely being part of a larger order.