Poland airline threatens to dump 787 Dreamliner

Polskie Linie Lotnicze LOT SA, Poland's national airline, said it may consider alternatives to Boeing Co. 787 Dreamliner should the airplane maker further push back planned deliveries of the jet.

The Polish carrier has 14 Boeing 787s on order. The company is preparing to discuss compensation with Boeing, and wouldn't rule out a switch to Airbus SAS, Flight International reported today, citing LOT Chief Executive Officer Sebastian Mikosz.

"Depending on the development of the situation there are different options to be considered," spokesman Andrzej Kozlowski said by telephone. He declined to comment on compensation. Boeing couldn't immediately be reached for comment.

Boeing said last month that delays on the Dreamliner have extended to about 2 1/2 years because of problems with the new materials, parts shortages, redesigns and incomplete work from suppliers, which are building most of the aircraft.

LOT had originally aimed for first deliveries from Boeing in October 2008 and now estimates it will receive the first jets at the end of 2010, the spokesman said. The company won't seek other options if that deadline is met, Kozlowski said.