QF 744 retirement. Where is it at?

[Jim M]

Apologies if there is a similar thread somewhere,but where do we all think the 744 retirement plan is at present? In view of some recent announcements and some equipment changes coming up soon on some sectors e.g. all the LHR changes,where does this leave the 744? Qantas has already stated that with the changes,it will be able to accelerate the 744 retirement plan,but what does that mean exactly?

Keeping in mind we already know of OJB,OJF & OJP for sale and that OJG,OJH & OJJ are supposed to be available from late 2012/early 2013,I would be interested very much to hear peoples thoughts as to what will happen and which aircraft will be the next to go and when.

I am assuming it will be the those I have listed above,but in what order and when,I have no idea and I wonder how many QF will lose this year?

Cheers
Jim

[Shayne G]

I wonder how many QF will lose this year?

A big chunk of the fleet.

[Brad Myer]

QF have stated the 6 B744s will be retired, those are the 6 regos you listed above.

Most of the other B744s will have to wait for the 2 additional A380s to arrive, as well as the B787-900s which are "due" in 2014.

QF will hold onto 9 of the newly upgraded B744s until at least 2019.

Cheers

[Jim M]

Brad,do you think the late 12/early 13 dates for OJG,OJH & OJJ will stay or will they be brought forward?

Cheers
Jim

[Mike W]

well as the B787-900s which are "due" in 2014.
????

Is it because you don't know they are called 787-9s or you don't want to know?

[Ash W]

Unless I am mistaken the 6 planned withdrawals listed above were announced prior to the latest cuts which will allow Qantas to accelerate their withdrawal plan. So based on that I think it is fair to assume that a couple more will be added to the list.

[A McLaughlin]

????

Is it because you don't know they are called 787-9s or you don't want to know?

Both terms are correct... The '-9' is the marketing term for the particular model, and denotes the first of the model numbers. But when in service, each airline's model will have a three number suffix, e.g. '-938'

[Jim M]

Oh well, OJO is apparently withdrawn from the fleet,and OJB sometime within a week.
Will be interesting to see what is next and when....

Me personally,I'd rather it be none :(
Sad days indeed

Cheers
Jim

[Jason H]

I've noticed that since the schedule change last week, there have been around 10 or so 747s parked in Sydney overnight, as well as 2 in Avalon for maintenance. It has usually been around 3 or 4 a night, which leads me to believe maybe a few more 744s to go in the near future

[Peter H.]

Notice on acars where OJD seems to do the Syd-Per-Syd run all the time. Has this been upgraded?

[Sarah C]

OJD does the Perth run because it is the only two class aircraft left

[Brett Williamson]

OJA...Will they donate, sell or scrap?

[Sarah C]

OJO is sitting out by the Pond this morning - the tail has been painted over, the Qantas lettering has been removed (Spirit of Australia remains for some reason). The Wallabies decals have been largely removed except one section by the wing.

[Jim M]

Well it seems she won't be operating a revenue service for her Aus departure,unlike sister OJN back in December.
Does anyone know when her departure is and whether its to Victorville or Marana?
If I'm not mistaken,OJR was the last to leave without Roo and titles and it went to Marana.

Cheers
Jim

[Stefan Perkas]

Hi Jim,

According to Airliners.net http://www.airliners.net/aviation-forums/general_aviation/read.main/5424642/#last...

VH-OJO will depart SYD 17/04 @ 1410 operating as QF6021 SYD-VCV....

[Jim M]

Thank you Stefan,much appreciated!

Cheers
Jim

[Shayne G]

Saw OJO today at Jetbase being prepared for ferry flight..


Another one bites the dust...

[Jim M]

OJB also out as of a few days ago.....:(

Jim

[Sarah C]

A reminder OJO departs at 2:10pm today - terrible weather for it though

[A McLaughlin]

Taxiing now...QF6021

[Fabian Lee]

Is it still taxiing? How's the weather?

[Andrew Coggan]

Departed between rain showers.

[Sarah C]

Left 45 minutes late but she is gone :(

[Laurent Sanhard]

Looks like OJO lost her MOJO :) hope she does'nt end up like http://www.airliners.net/photo/Untitled-(Qantas)/Boeing-747-438/2089870/&sid=9ac2d3b96894837182195afc8c9c891b :cool:

[Jarden S]

Yes its not good when your aircraft looses its MOJO....terible;)

[Jamie D]

In light of OJO leaving our shores, thought I'd post a picture I just found of another one of our old friends http://www.airteamimages.com/big135094.html

[A McLaughlin]

Arrived at KVCV at around 0430 AEST

[Steve Crook]

Does anybody know what the prospects for -OJL are? She's still ploughing the routes between Australia, London, South Africa, Hong Kong and LA. As yet she also hasn't had her livery updated. Is this an indication that she may have limited days with Qantas?

[Rowan McKeever]

Steve there's a fair chunk of the 747 fleet that haven't been repainted yet. From memory only OJM, OJS-OJU, OEB and a couple of -400ERs have been done.

[Ash W]

All the 747's, except for the -ER's and -OJS, -OJT and -OJU have a limited life left in Qantas. The only question is what order will they follow -OJO.

[Jack B]

I think only OEF remains in the old livery

[Jack B]

I think the only ER with the old livery is OEF


Sorry about the double post

[Jim M]

Anyone know any details about the departure of OJB?
I'm assuming it will also be heading to VCV...

Cheers
Jim

[Todd Hendry]

Looks like OJB operates into LAX then to VCV on Thursday the 26th of April LAX time, Jim.

Not sure how it gets there, but I'm assuming via BNE. Only a guess.

Todd.

[Jim M]

Thanks for the info Todd. At least I know the date now and I will watch out for the rest of the details.
Another sad day for all us 744 lovers :(

Cheers
Jim

[Fred C]

Looks like OJB operates into LAX then to VCV on Thursday the 26th of April LAX time, Jim.

Not sure how it gets there, but I'm assuming via BNE. Only a guess.

Todd.
It will be doing the QF107 run on Wed 25th as its last commercial flight.:(

[Adam.S]

Has QF12 been canned in order to operate as QF108 instead on the 25th out of LAX? Or was QF12 already cancelled for other reasons, prior to OJB being booked to operate QF107?

cheers

[Jim M]

Hi All,

Just a reminder that OJB operates QF107 tomorrow 25/04 on its last commercial flight,and departure from Australia.

Another sad day :(

Jim

[Jamie D]

OJB is currently climbing through 11200 feet on her final qantas journey!!

[Sarah C]

OJB departing this morning......

[Stefan Perkas]

Evening all,

Airliners.net http://www.airliners.net/aviation-forums/general_aviation/read.main/5443885/#last reporting that...

Another QF B744 retirement with VH-OJP departing on 10/06 as QF107 SYD-LAX and ferry off to VCV on the 11/06 as QF6021...

[Jim M]

Stefan,
Wouldn't mind betting that should be 10/05 departure,not 10/06. OJP hasn't operated a service since about 25/04 so i can't see it being here for another 6 weeks or so till the 10/06.

Cheers
Jim

[Ian Nicholls]

Both QF12 and QF108 operate on 10/05 but there's no QF12 on 10/06 and QF108 is an A380 so 10 June is definitely the date.

[Jim M]

Thanks Ian,if this is the case then it is a bit unusual compared to other 744 withdrawals. Most have departed to the desert within 2 or 3 weeks of their withdrawal. Although OJP seems not to have operated since around 25/04,I guess there has been nothing "official" to say that it has been withdrawn as yet.
Maybe she's destined to operate a few more QF services yet,who knows....

Cheers
Jim

[Todd Hendry]

All I know is it will OJP will depart after the 4th of June.
Todd

[Jim M]

Cheers Todd!

[callum bain]

i believe that most of the aircraft will be sold to developing governments like some of there 737-400

[Bob C]

Any clues as to which "developing governments" are in the market for the former QANTAS airframes ?

[Jamie D]

OJP is in currently enroute to jnb as QF 63, appears to have a few more scheduled ops in her before retirement

[Lee G]

I believe it's the final flight of VH-OJF today - ops as QF107 then instead of returning, will end up at KVDV.

[Jim M]

Thanks for the info on OJF Lee. I know it is one of the aircraft that was for sale and I note it hasn't operated a service for a few weeks,but i feel that this one has been kept a little quiet. I don't recall seeing anything saying that it was going so soon.
Thought OJP was next.

Cheers
Jim

[Luke Chittock]

Hi Jim - OJF was scheduled to depart 03JUN back in FEB. OJP departs 10JUN, same deal (ops QF107 as noted in previous posts).
OJG/OJH/OJQ were next to go between JUL and OCT, though I understand OJQ may have been pushed back

[Jim M]

Gday Luke,thanks for that,I wasn't aware of the June dates for OJF or OJP for that matter. I did originally hear that OJG,OJH and OJJ were going late 2012 early 2013 respectively,but things have probably changed since then. Although,you are still saying OJG and OJH this year,I had heard nothing about OJQ until you mentioned it here.

Thanks once again,
Jim

[Ian Nicholls]

Just for the record VH-OJF operated the QF107/QF108 LAX-JFK tag so it's final QF passenger flight was QF108 JFK-LAX.

[Jim M]

Does anyone have any updates here?

Only reason I'm asking is that OJG seems to have been a bit quiet for a week or so and it was mentioned earlier in this thread as one that was supposed to be going between July and October. I for one, hope its not the case and there is some other reason.

Keep all the rest.... We've lost enough already!!

Jim

[Sarah C]

There is a 747 at the Jetbase near the Pond with its titles removed and tail painted out. It should be OJG.

[Jim M]

Thanks Sarah,that would be it. All the others seem to be accounted for.

Looks like no revenue service for her,straight to the desert :(

Jim

[Shayne G]

Here is VH-OJG this evening. Sorry for quality, phone camera and low light aren't a good mix.

Keep all the rest.... We've lost enough already!!

Jim

I have similar sentiments as you.

[Dave Dale]

OJA still soldiers on!

[Jim M]

Dave,I hope a few more soldier on with her!!

Speaking of the glorious lady, saw her arrive on the QF22 from NRT yesterday morning, looking as good as ever!

Cheers
Jim

[Stuart Trevena]

Hi All,

Can anyone please advise how Qantas decides which a/c stays and which ones retire.
I ask this as they seem be retiring a/c regos all over the place - not in order.

I would have thought that OJA being the oldest would go first, but that isn't the case.

Stuart

[Michael Mak]

Probably which ones approaching a heavy check (D-check?) first?

[Jim M]

Stuart

Just for your info,if you read right through this thread and some others about OJR,I think some of what you are asking has been addressed. Michael is right about aircraft approaching D checks,but I believe it is also to do with the different leasing arrangements and the associated costs with that,as well as the aircraft's number of cycles.


Cheers
Jim

[Adam W]

As Michael said heavy maintenance plays a part. Other factors are the number of cycles and the cost of the lease if it is a leased aircraft.

[Sarah C]

OJG has been moved overnight - it is now along the fence at the JetBase enterance so it is very prominent if you are driving along QF Drive.

[Jim M]

Does anyone know when she is departing our shores?

Cheers
Jim

[Luke Chittock]

QF6020/21AUG Sydney direct Marana

[Jim M]

Someone correct me if I'm wrong,by all means,but I think this will be the first QF 744 to Marana since OJR left our shores.

Thanks for the info Luke

Jim

[Fred C]

Does anyone know when she is departing our shores?

Cheers
Jim

Jim it looks like going on the 21st August at around 1155.

It has flown over 100,000 hours for Qantas including 12,500 landings.:D

[Bob C]

Hi Fred

Would that be the first Qantas aircraft to have flown 100,000 hours ? I know that many have made it to the "nervous 90s" but I think this may be the first to hit the ton.

I've tried to keep a list of high time B747s which I collate from various sources. I know that it is far from complete but I think the former B747-206B, N730SA c/n 22380 l/n 0539 of Southern Air Transport is the world's high time B747 with 127,867 hours.

And my list has more than 20 B747s with more than 100,000 hours.

I'd be intersted if anyone can help me add to the list.

Cheers

Bob

[Jim M]

Thanks Fred for the update and your always informative info.
Another sad day it will be for all us 744 lovers :(

Cheers
Jim

[Tom PER]

Are you sure -OJG has over 100k hours?

Last year it had 86084hrs/11055cycles.

At that time which was December 2012 -OJN was the highest with 94727hrs closely followed behind by -OJB with 94509hrs.

Bob C, LH's D-ABVA had 112,358 (117,982 block hours) 15274cycles at time of retirement. I believe that's the most on a B744 frame.

[Bob C]

Hi Tom

Just had a quick look at my records and I have 5 B747s with more hours than D-ABVA.

I also went a googling and found that N746SA, a B747-206B c/n 21111 l/n 0276 of Southern Air Transport had 134,694 hours and 23,991 cycles when it was retired in December 2009. It was due for a major check and the cost would have been more than the airframe was worth so it was retired.

It hadn't featured in my list so who knows what is out there as there is nothing definitive.

My records are compiled from Wikipedia, media reports, airline PR releases, Boeing PR releases, Aircraft for Sale sites, answers to my written questions etc.

Cheers

Bob

[Fred C]

Are you sure -OJG has over 100k hours?

Yes.:)

Bob I do believe it is the first, but I cannot be 100% sure on this.

[Bob C]

Hi Fred

Thanks for the info.

But if Tom's figures are correct, then there is no way that -OJG could have flown 14,000 hours in 12 months.

The following site lists various aircraft for sale and I counted 6 QF B747-400s, including -OJN an -OJB which Tom mentioned in his reply. Note that several of the QF aircraft have already been sold or scrapped.

http://www.speednews.com/EquipmentResults.aspx?Search=Aircraft&Aircraft=747

Cheers

Bob

[NathanJ]

VH-OJG awaiting it's fate.

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8442/7813855656_9d9eeec7c8_b.jpg

[Jim M]

Just a reminder that OJG departs tomorrow at around 1155 for anyone that may be out there.

Does anyone know the reason for it going to Marana,rather than VCV,where most of the others have gone? Just interested to know.

Cheers
Jim

[Fred C]

It is where the owners of the aircraft have requested it goes for whatever reason that may be.

[Benny Zheng]

According to Wikipedia, Pinal Airpark's main purpose is to act as a "boneyard" for civilian commercial aircraft.

[Jim M]

Thanks Fred,it is certainly interesting. Think OJR was the last one to go there :confused:

Cheers
Jim

[Kelvin R]

I am presuming the aircraft is stripped inside of seats, galley equipment, IFE control unit etc before departing? If that is the case does anyone know the weight difference between OJG and a fully outfitted QF744?

[Anthony F]

What would they do with the seats?

[Fred C]

Nothing is removed from the aircraft prior to departure. It goes as a fully working aircraft. Seats, Galley, IFE all functional.:D

[Rowan McKeever]

Really!? Wow, I would've thought they'd go for the weight saving and strip it all out before departure... especially with the length of time OJG has been in Sydney.

[Mike W]

Isn't all of the interior part of the 'package' when it comes to sell, or... I hate to say it, scrap the aircraft?

[Mark Grima]

To my knowledge, yes that is the case. Internal features can make the company scrapping the aircraft a decent amount of coin once on sold.

Cheers

M

[Ash W]

Guess it depends upon whether the airline needs spares for themselves, the age of the aircraft and what possible uses it may have in the future.

[Jim M]

Looks like OJH may have now have been withdrawn as well :confused:
Can anyone confirm/add details?

Jim

[Sarah C]

OJH hasn't been withdrawn yet, it is operating the QF127 today

[Jim M]

Thank you Sarah, thats very good news as far as i'm concerned.
Hope it won't be for a while yet.....

Cheers
Jim

[Jim M]

With the recent announcement about JNB and F Class, i wonder whether this may change the retirement order for some of the 744s.

They have nine of the new ones with A380 style, plus 5 older style 3 class 744s (OJA,OJC,OJE,OJI,OJJ). All these have no first class,and since these seem to be the aircraft that are going to be required, i'm just wondering whether some of the four class 744s may end up going first. Not that there are many left.

Just a thought.

Also,anyone know where OJH is? Seems to have been missing for a bit.

Cheers
Jim

[Fred C]

VH-OJH has stopped commercial flying and is being prepared for lease return at SYD. Skippy has been removed from the vertical stabiliser. OJH will leave our shores sometime at the start of October.:(

[Grahame Hutchison]

I remember flying on OJH's first service after the massive repair from the Bangkok accident. Speaking to the Captain after the flight, he said OJH flew as true as it ever did - just like new (although there were problems with the PA).

[Jim M]

So true as I also spoke to a couple of pilots shortly after OJH was put back into service, and they said the same thing - is as good as new.
For this aircraft to bounce back after those massive repairs and to serve QF for so many more years as one of the best in the fleet (as has been said more than once by some),it will be a very sad day in my book the day this aircraft leaves our shores :(

Jim

[Stuart Trevena]

Hi All,

Was that the Golf Course incident - Over ran the Runway in heavy rain??

Or was there another incident??

Please confirm

Stuart

[Jim M]

Hi Stuart,

There was only one incident with OJH. Bangkok 23 September 1999,as you stated runway over run in heavy rain whilst operating QF1.

Hope that clears it up for you

Cheers
Jim

[Grahame Hutchison]

This was one of my favourite images from this incident, the Upper
Deck starboard emergency slide deployed on top of a tree.

http://www.16Right.com/MessageBoard/Vh-OJH Bangkok Accident 01.jpg

Notice the large vertical crease in the skin below the opened
door.
http://www.16Right.com/MessageBoard/Vh-OJH Bangkok Accident 02.jpg

Yep, definitely bogged.
http://www.16Right.com/MessageBoard/Vh-OJH Bangkok Accident 03.jpg

Retrieving the aircraft without further damaging it was quite
an exercise.
http://www.16Right.com/MessageBoard/Vh-OJH Bangkok Accident 04.jpg

The soft ground probably helped slow the aircraft.
http://www.16Right.com/MessageBoard/Vh-OJH Bangkok Accident 05.jpg

[Mark Grima]

Correct me if I am wrong, but OJH also had the oxygen cylinder explosion, after leaving HKG didn't she?

Cheers

M

[Todd Hendry]

Mark.

It was not OJH it was OJK.

Todd.

[Mark Grima]

Cheers thanks Todd.

M

[Jim M]

If anyone obtains details of OJH's exact departure details when they become available as well as whether she is headed to VCV or Marana,I'd be grateful if they would post.

Thanks
Jim

[Jim M]

Found a flight departure listed on the Sydney Airport departures list for the 03/10/12 at 1230 QF6019 to Los Angeles.

Anyone know if this is OJH 's departure,or some other repositioning flight?

Cheers
Jim

[Todd Hendry]

Jim.

As usual you are correct.

OJH leaves on the 3rd of OCT to LAX.

Then after 24 hours in LAX goes to MZJ.

Keep up the good / sad work.

Todd.

[Jim M]

Todd

Thanks for the info and the complement. Its quite funny actually,because when I posted it I had a feeling that you would be right up on the info with this - and you were!

I will continue to keep up with the 744 retirement because for me it is a very sad and also significant time,not only for QF,but for aviation in Australia.
This aircraft has been and still is the backbone of the QF International Fleet for over two decades and that cannot be disputed.

Thanks again

Jim

[David Heath]

I will be saddened by VH-OJA eventually going to the metal jaws. I think it's more significant than the fleet that VH-EBQ represents at Longreach, plus it was named after that town and the revolutionary capability it provided for long haul high capacity transport; plus the world record endurance.....etc etc.

[Dave Dale]

David, am I reading too much into your post about OJA? Do you know when she is leaving the fleet?

Dave

[Brad Varney]

Hopefully she will go into the QF museum!
I understand that OJA and OJD are the only two QF 747's RB-211 that are owned?

[Dave Dale]

After OJH goes, I think nearly all of the 747s are owned now. The exceptions are OJH, OJG & OJJ which are owned by RIL aviation.

I note four ex BA 767s are now owned too. (ZXA, ZXE, ZXF, ZXG) Purchased at end of lease. ZXB, ZXC & ZXD are still leased.

Dave

[Jim M]

After OJH goes, I think nearly all of the 747s are owned now. The exceptions are OJH, OJG & OJJ which are owned by RIL aviation.


Dave,

Once OJH departs,do you have any idea of an order of which are the next to go and when that might be?

Cheers
Jim

[Ash W]

I will be saddened by VH-OJA eventually going to the metal jaws. I think it's more significant than the fleet that VH-EBQ represents at Longreach, plus it was named after that town and the revolutionary capability it provided for long haul high capacity transport; plus the world record endurance.....etc etc.

Actually -OJA is and has always been named City of Canberra. Sure the word Longreach appears on the side but that was a marketing name that was applied to the entire -400 fleet. Whilst it may well be a play on words from the town name it actually refers to the distance the a/c can fly.

-OJI is the actual a/c named after the town.

[Fred C]

I reckon VH-OJQ might just be the next one to go. We will just have to wait and see.:)

[Jim M]

I reckon you might be right on that one Fred.

It makes a bit of sense,especially with JNB now going to 3 class aircraft as well.

Jim

[Luke Chittock]

OJQ leaving 31OCT as QF107 to LAX/JFK then back to LAX as QF108 before heading to VCV 01NOV.

[Peter Agatsiotis]

Noticed VH-OJH at the jet base yesterday devoid of titles and the roo painted out so tomorrow it will be gone.

I flew on OJH twice, once before the Bangkok incident and last flight was in 2004 QF5 to Singapore.

[Anthony F]

Why do all the new roo planes in the OJ series seem the get retired. Only OJM and OEB will be left with the new roo apart from the ER and the remaining birds in the OJS, OJT, OJU series. All the others are with the old livery.

[Jim M]

Anthony, I think you are asking why they are retiring OJ series in New roo scheme?

If so, I can only think of out of all the 744s that have been retired so far, OJO is the only one that has been in new colour scheme, so I'm not sure what you mean.....

Luke, any idea what and when will follow OJQ? Hopefully,nothing for a while, I've had enough of this for now.

Cheers
Jim

[Jim M]

If anyone can get a shot or two of OJH before she departs tomorrow,it would be great.

Unfortunately I'm working so I can't get there.

Tomorrow we lose one of the all time greats :(

Jim

[Benny Zheng]

Looks like OJH's flight to LAX is still planned for 3 Oct. QF6019 departing at 1230.

On a side note, OJM will be following behind as QF11. Probably sad to see another buddy gone.

[Trevor Sinclair]

Along with VH-OEG to DFW. Quite a sight this arvo.

[Rowan McKeever]

A bit special to see on flightaware a 4 minute gap in front and the same behind OJH with her two sisters escorting her across the Pacific... couldn't plan it any better than that! :)

[Peter Agatsiotis]

OJH departed around 13:50 (no flight no. on my sbs?)

[Sarah C]

OJH is on its way as QF6019 - it was following younger brother OJM. Will post a picture tonight.

[Kurt A]

VH-OJM QFA011 Dep: 13:42

http://i56.photobucket.com/albums/g183/yssy_moderator/YSSY%20Stuff/VH-OJM.jpg


VH-OJH QFA6019 Dep: 13:46

http://i56.photobucket.com/albums/g183/yssy_moderator/YSSY%20Stuff/VH-OJH.jpg

http://i56.photobucket.com/albums/g183/yssy_moderator/YSSY%20Stuff/VH-OJHa.jpg

[Nigel C]

Geez Kurt...have you ever thought of doing photography full time? Great shots!

[Jim M]

Kurt.... I'm with Nigel. You should be doing this a lot more often with shots like that!
Thanks for posting.

Farewell to a legend. The QF fleet is poorer without you.

Cheers
Jim

[Sarah C]

I am with Nigel and Jim - sensational photos Kurt!

[Todd Hendry]

I am with Nigel, Jim and Sarah. Fantastic shots.
Nek minit there's one less.

[Sarah C]

My effort is pretty basic compared to what Kurt produced.

[Jim M]

Ah Sarah.... Don't sell yourself short. They are fantastic shots too!

Thanks for posting

Cheers
Jim

[Rowan McKeever]

Great shots both Sarah and Kurt, thanks :) I love that the 'roo on the tail isn't entirely invisible, on either side! Curious though what the layover in LAX is all about, and why not just fly it straight into VCV, especially curious as OJQ is stated as doing the same later this month?

Cheers
Rowan

[Jim M]

Rowan,

OJH is not heading to VCV, she's going to MZJ.

I would assume the time in LA is for crew rest hours.

Cheers
Jim

[Dave Dale]

OJH is leased so this is reason for her Mojave home. Owned aircraft usually go to Victorville.

Dave

[Rowan McKeever]

OJH is not heading to VCV, she's going to MZJ.

Oops, cheers Jim... not sure how I messed that up!

[Jim M]

Since we are this far along with the 744 retirement, i thought i would put a list of where the retired aircraft have gone so far. Please correct me if i have any wrong.

VCV MZJ

OED OJR
OEC OJG
OJB OJH
OJF
OJK (Got Sold i think)
OJN
OJO
OJP
OJQ (Soon)


I think they are all correct
Sadly, thats quite a list now.

Cheers
Jim

[Dave Dale]

The 747 retirement schedule might get a slow up with QF35/36 MEL-SIN being added to the schedule commencing March next year and operated by a 747.

Source: http://www.ausbt.com.au/qantas-adds-new-flights-to-singapore

Dave

[Jim M]

That's good news as far as I'm concerned.
Also I wasn't aware that QF5/6 will run till Oct 2013, I thought it was ending in March and I'm pleasantly surprised that QF51/52 service will remain,or have I read that wrong?

The 744 returns to MEL!!


Jim

[Jim M]

OJH is leased so this is reason for her Mojave home. Owned aircraft usually go to Victorville.

Dave

Dave,

You meant Marana home,didn't you? :D

Cheers
Jim

[Dave Dale]

Jim, you have identified my error :p. It should be Marana.

Dave

[Jim M]

Cheers Dave,

Gotta have a bit of fun sometimes :D.

Jim

[Fabian Lee]

A bit special to see on flightaware a 4 minute gap in front and the same behind OJH with her two sisters escorting her across the Pacific... couldn't plan it any better than that! :)

Any chance of posting a screenshot of that, mate? Can't seem to get it on f/aware. Thank you.

[Kurt A]

Hi Fabian,

I'm not sure if you can replay the history of the map on Flightware for that purpose. But luck would have it, I grabbed a screenshot while they were tracking somewhere between Sydney and New Caledonia on Wednesday.

http://flightaware.com/live/airport/YSSY

http://i56.photobucket.com/albums/g183/yssy_moderator/YSSY%20Stuff/QFA6016.jpg

[Kurt A]

OJH farewell flight to Marana:

http://youtu.be/eSmy_iuWM3Y

[Fred C]

VH-OJQ will leave SYD for the last time on Wed 31 Oct. Its last run will be the QF 11 and thence to VCV. Farewell another.:(

[Oliver Gigacz]

OJQ was the first 747 I flew on.

[Jim M]

More sad news :(

[Sarah C]

I wil be on the flight tomorrow - if anyone is out and can share photos tomorrow, that would be appreciated.

[Jon Harris]

Does anyone know when OJQ will operate as QF6021 LAX-VCV - is it on Thurs or Friday?

[Dave Dale]

Taken from the Boeing website (available aircraft), an idea of when VH-OJJ will depart:

Model 747-400
Engine RB211-524G2-T
Serial No. 24974
YOM 1990
Hours 88628
Cycles 11131
MTOW 875,000
Timing April 2013
Status Sale
Contact Moore, Nick

DVB Aviation Asset Management
Ph + 65 6499 5901
Fx
nick.moore@dvbbank.com

[Jim M]

Thanks Dave,hope that gets put back a bit more (with a bit of luck)!!

Cheers
Jim

[Kurt A]

I wil be on the flight tomorrow - if anyone is out and can share photos tomorrow, that would be appreciated.

Here you go Sarah. VH-OJQ departed at 14:45 local. A tad late and very heat hazy too.

http://i56.photobucket.com/albums/g183/yssy_moderator/YSSY%20Stuff/_MG_1070.jpg

http://i56.photobucket.com/albums/g183/yssy_moderator/YSSY%20Stuff/_MG_1085.jpg

http://i56.photobucket.com/albums/g183/yssy_moderator/YSSY%20Stuff/_MG_1109.jpg

[Jim M]

Kurt

Once again you have absolutely nailed it!

Brilliant photos mate.

Cheers
Jim M

[Mark T]

Must be using a good lens, eh Amsy :-)

[Fred C]

Does anyone know when OJQ will operate as QF6021 LAX-VCV - is it on Thurs or Friday?

It will be Friday Sydney time possibly Thursday Local time.

[Sarah C]

Landed this morning LA time (Friday early morning your time). Will post photos when I return to Sydney

[Sarah C]

Two photos attached of OQ arriving in VCV

[Deni G]

A milestone was recently reached at Qantas , with B747-400 VH-OJG reaching a record 100,000 flight hours.

B747-438 registered as VH-OJG first flew on 11 July 1990 at Paine Field , Everett. After 4 Boeing test flights
and 2 Qantas Customer Acceptance flights,it was accepted by Qantas on 15 August 1990 in Las Vegas, Nevada.

VH-OJG was the 7th 747-400 to be purchased by Qantas and the 801st B747 built by Boeing at the Everett factory
in Washington State.

On 19 May 2012 it achieved 100,000 flying hours, operating the QF24 service between Bangkok and Sydney.

It ceased revenue operations on 20 July 2012 and was prepared for return to the lessor on 14 August, 1 day short
of its 22nd birthday.The aircraft departed Sydney on 21 august 2012 at 13:25 on its final flight to Marana in Arizona.

It arrived at Marana having accrued 100,612 air hours and 12,489 cycles making it the highest time aircraft to have
operated in the Qantas fleet. Over it’s 22 year operational life VH-OJG has flown an average of 12.5 hours per day,
accumulated a total of 100,612 flight hours and 12,489 flight cycles.Carrying over 3.8 million passengers,VH-OJG
has travelled over 85 million kilometres,which is equivalent of 110 return trips to the moon !

[Jim M]

I think Fred mentioned this earlier in this thread,but all these stats, I find fascinating.

Thanks for sharing Deni,indeed it is a milestone.

Cheers
Jim

[Zac M]

http://www.airliners.net/photo/Boeing-747-438/2226229/L/&sid=fab11bf33dd3ed7873924ff75dfe4d7a
Saw this on the Ausyralian Aviation facebook page...OJG wont be going to another operator...

[Jim M]

What a SAD photo that is!! Can't believe it. They are too good an aircraft to end up like that.

Jim

[MarkR]

OJD does her last revenue service March 7.

[Sarah C]

OJD is operating QF15 and then off to the desert so Brisbane spotters will get to see her last take off from Australia.

[Jim M]

Sad news indeed! :(

Jim

[Rory Delaney]

I believe OJJ is the next to go, after OJD.

[Steve S... 2]

Hopefully OJA goes to a museum! If not, then hopefully it will be the last of this older batch to be retired.

[Jim M]

As far as I know OJD hasn't gone yet.....

I think OJJ was supposed to be April sometime. Hope not.

Jim

[Ash W]

With all the route changes happening on 31st March there will be a few excess 744's, so clearly some more will be gone not long after. Still not sure how they are going to get down from the 17 or so they have now down to 9 and still run the routes they are using the 744 on though.

[Ryan K]

Ash, the cynic in me would say that Qantas Management know exactly why they'll only need 9 744's. Cutting more routes perhaps? But, this is Qantas, they wouldn't do that, would they????

[Ash W]

Well they certainly don't have any new a/c in the pipeline, so clearly something must give.

[Dave Dale]

Page 15 of the Qantas Investor Presentation Supplementary slides states that in the second half of 2013, 2x 747s will be retired (including one lease return).

Dave

[Rory Delaney]

As far as I know OJD hasn't gone yet.....

I think OJJ was supposed to be April sometime. Hope not.

Jim

Today, VH-OJJ was scheduled to operate its last flight to JNB and back before starting the disposal, obviously it has changed its schedule. It's now on the way back from LAX as QF108. This could be its last flight because it is scheduled for disposal as per its allocation plan.. but then again as always, it could most likely change.

VH-OJD's schedule shows it supposedly taking off from BNE to LAX at 0905 tomorrow, but its still in SYD I believe. Again, could all change..

[Dave Dale]

Hopefully OJA goes to a museum! If not, then hopefully it will be the last of this older batch to be retired.

I note that OJA had some recent paint preservation work done. It may be for a nice retirement, hopefully at Longreach?

[Jim M]

Today, VH-OJJ was scheduled to operate its last flight to JNB and back before starting the disposal, obviously it has changed its schedule. It's now on the way back from LAX as QF108. This could be its last flight

I think somehow this may not be right. I was certain OJJ was always slated being 04/13 as per the info Dave has previously given. This would make more sense,given the changes from 31 March,so unless something has drastically changed,I reckon not.
I also heard that OJD was supposed to be retired on 9 Jan this year....go figure.

If OJD is going tomorrow,its going to have an early morning hop up to BNE...

Jim

[Fred C]

VH-OJD should leave SYD at 0905 for a positioning flight to BNE. It will then do its last commercial sector as the QF 15 BNE LAX and thence to VCV the next day.

[Jim M]

Hey Fred,have you got any info on OJJ?
Thanks for the update on OJD

Cheers
Jim

[Rory Delaney]

I think somehow this may not be right. I was certain OJJ was always slated being 04/13 as per the info Dave has previously given. This would make more sense,given the changes from 31 March,so unless something has drastically changed,I reckon not.
I also heard that OJD was supposed to be retired on 9 Jan this year....go figure.

If OJD is going tomorrow,its going to have an early morning hop up to BNE...

Jim

It could still be going at the date you've just given. Aircraft always change their schedule as previously said.. OJJ is scheduled to go into disposal after this flight, unless needed as a spare just like OJD a few weeks ago. Jim, I'll PM you.

[Rowan McKeever]

OJD is on its way to BNE now as QF6013 (http://flightaware.com/live/flight/VHOJD).

[Rowan McKeever]

And is now in BNE...

[Ben W]

Great to see her operate her final service out of the city she's named for.

[Ben W]

Can anyone in Bris get a picture of her leaving OZ for the last time?

[Rory Delaney]

Rumour has it that VH-OJJ is due to leave on the 14th of March.. let's hope not!

[Kieran Wells]

OJJ leaving tomorrow.. Seen a photo of it posted on Facebook with roo painted out.. Anyone know what time its going off to the boneyard?

[Fred C]

It is going, but not tomorrow. Not sure of the date yet.

[Jim M]

It is going, but not tomorrow. Not sure of the date yet.

When the date is known,I would love to find out as well as if anyone catches a photo of OJJ before she goes or on departure,I'd be greatful if you would post.

Cheers
Jim

[Dave Dale]

I'm sitting in the Qantas Club and note VH-OJJ sitting near the pond, only rego visible, no titles. Looking sad. There appears to be no movement around her.

Dave

[Nigel C]

It's been there for a couple of weeks now, taking up real estate that I'm sure Qantas could put into better use.

[Danny G]

Surely Qantas could make some PR out of the history etc of these fine Jumbos & what they have done for Australia ? Some ceremony, web page & doco ! Maybe its the Qantas of the future now ..no Australian heritage just another Airline .

[Dave Dale]

Singapore Airlines has done exactly that. There is a great website SIA put together marking the contribution of the 747 (www.siajourneys.com (http://www.siajourneys.com)). I wish Qantas would do the same. I would also like to see a 747-400 at Longreach and the 747-8i in the fleet, but these are other stories...

Dave

[Greg Hyde]

Has OJJ been returned to the lease holder and is Qantas renting then apron space ?

[Fred C]

At the moment it is due to depart our shores on Tue 9th April at midday.:(

[Ash W]

Surely Qantas could make some PR out of the history etc of these fine Jumbos & what they have done for Australia ? Some ceremony, web page & doco ! Maybe its the Qantas of the future now ..no Australian heritage just another Airline .

Really? Your not looking too hard then. There is a whole section on their website dedicated to their history and of course they also have the heritage museum in the Sydney domestic terminal.

http://www.qantas.com.au/travel/airlines/history/global/en

[Danny G]

I meant the 747s going without ceremony .Seen Longreach ,Museum & web site history.

[Jim M]

If OJJ is going on Tuesday,i won't be able to get to the airport before then. If anyone manages a few shots either before she goes or on departure,I'd appreciate it

One of my favourites....

Cheers
Jim

[Joseph Saragozza.]

Singapore Airlines has done exactly that. There is a great website SIA put together marking the contribution of the 747 (www.siajourneys.com (http://www.siajourneys.com)). I wish Qantas would do the same. I would also like to see a 747-400 at Longreach and the 747-8i in the fleet, but these are other stories...

Dave

I agree with 100% dave.
I think at least one of every QF type should put at longreach, that's just my 2c worth.
It's a sad thing seeing these old birds leave, I just hope they get the 748

[Zac M]

Unfortunately Longreach has limited space...I would love to see a representative of every type preserved however there just isn't enough space.

[Ash W]

I meant the 747s going without ceremony .Seen Longreach ,Museum & web site history.

Although some are going there are still going to be some around for a few years to come. I reckon many -OJA should go to Longreach, but other than that until such time as the last one is leaving the fleet why should there be any great fanfare?

[David Heath]

In all seriousness OJA should be at Longreach, or perhaps they could store it at the new air park at Alice Springs if it's already too full at the museum. OJA and her sisters changed everything for Australian travellers. It solidified one stop to Europe and made non-stop across the Pacific routine. Not to mention the world record. Perhaps we need a "Save The PA Worldport" style movement to save her :)

[Dennis McLean]

I guess that OJS is in for a D check, has been in Avalon since 20 February. Any news?

[Rory Delaney]

OJS, OJT and OJU will stay in the QF fleet for many more years to come and they're the newest 747-400s.

[Jim M]

OJS, OJT and OJU will stay in the QF fleet for many more years to come and they're the newest 747-400s.

Those three,along with the six 747-400ERs OEE,OEF,OEG,OEH,OEI & OEJ.

These are even newer. I think they started being delivered around 2002.

Cheers
Jim

[Ash W]

Rory was talking specifically about the 400's, not the 400ER's, so the 3 he mentioned are the newest 400's being delivered 1999/2000. But yes the -400ER's are newer.

[Fred C]

It would appear as though it is now going on Wed 10th at midday.:confused:

[Rory Delaney]

Those three,along with the six 747-400ERs OEE,OEF,OEG,OEH,OEI & OEJ.

These are even newer. I think they started being delivered around 2002.

Cheers
Jim
I was talking about the 400's. But yes, the -400ER's are obviously newer. :)
Rory was talking specifically about the 400's, not the 400ER's, so the 3 he mentioned are the newest 400's being delivered 1999/2000. But yes the -400ER's are newer.

[Jim M]

Rory was talking specifically about the 400's, not the 400ER's, so the 3 he mentioned are the newest 400's being delivered 1999/2000. But yes the -400ER's are newer.

I was aware that Rory was speaking about the 400s specifically,hence why i said "those three along with the ERs". I was merely stating the ERs were newer again, and that they would also be staying.

Jim

[Dennis McLean]

I am aware that OJS is staying. Does anyone know what is happening to her in Avalon, a "D" check perhaps?????

[Fred C]

Yes, It is having a "D' check. Its second one in fact.

[Anthony F]

Does OJS get the interior pulled out again during the 'D' check only being installed last year when it was upgraded to the equivilent to A380 spec.

[Kurt A]

It would appear as though it is now going on Wed 10th at midday.:confused:

VH-OJJ is QFA6021 SYD-MZJ ETD 1300 - currently at Intl Cargo 2A.

http://flightaware.com/live/flight/QFA6021

http://flightaware.com/live/flight/VHOJJ

[Fred C]

Does OJS get the interior pulled out again during the 'D' check only being installed last year when it was upgraded to the equivilent to A380 spec.
It certainly does.

[Kurt A]

If anyone manages a few shots either before she goes or on departure,I'd appreciate it

One of my favourites....

Cheers
Jim

VH-OJJ departed 34L 13:26.

Sorry Jim - Just bad timing, unlucky with the cloud cover today...

http://i56.photobucket.com/albums/g183/yssy_moderator/YSSY%20Stuff/_MG_0473_zps6f31b2f5.jpg

http://i56.photobucket.com/albums/g183/yssy_moderator/YSSY%20Stuff/_MG_0498_zps17e6938e.jpg

http://i56.photobucket.com/albums/g183/yssy_moderator/YSSY%20Stuff/_MG_0515_zpsa75eaecc.jpg

[Sarah C]

Great pics Kurt, thanks for sharing!

[Jim M]

Thanks Kurt. Amazing pics of yet another grand lady departing our shores. Very sad,but thanks so much for posting for those like me who couldn't be there today.

Cheers
Jim

[Jim M]

So with OJJ departing Australia yesterday and heading for Marana,I have a question. Why do all the aircraft that go to MZJ get parted out so quickly? It appears,on the info that I have seen and heard that the aircraft that go VCV,seem to have a better chance of a second life,if you like and go into a period of storage. However,aircraft going to MZJ are the opposite. I saw a recent pic of OJG,which didn't retire that long ago and it looked as though it had been there for ever. It had no chance of ever flying again,from what I saw. Very sad. I would assume that whether an aircraft goes to VCV or MZJ depends on the lease arrangements and holder. Please correct me if I'm wrong.

Also,where to from here. Does anyone know the next to go and when??

Hope its not for a while

Cheers
Jim

[Stuart Trevena]

Hi All,

FYI, According to Boeing Website, QF now have 6 B747's For Sale.

VH-OJB (Serial 24373)
VH-OJF (Serial 24483)
VH-OJN (Serial 25315)
VH-OJO (Serial 25544)
VH-OJP (Serial 25545)
VH-OJQ (Serial 25546)

Others to Note:
VH-OJJ (Serial 24974) Marana (Possible Broken Up)
VH-OEC Already Scrapped at VCV
VH-OED Already Scrapped at VCV
VH-OJR Already Scrapped at Marana

Further to this, according to Airfleets, Qantas has these listed as Stored:

OJB
OJD
OJF
OJG
OJH
OJJ
OJN
OJO
OJP
OJQ

16 x Active B747's

OJA
OJC
OJE
OJI
OJL
OJM
OJS
OJT
OJU
OEB
OEE
OEF
OEG
OEH
OEI
OEJ

Stuart

[Jim M]

Thanks for the info Stuart. The only thing I can add is that OJG is definitely not stored. From the recent pic I saw,sadly,it is well on the way to being broken up :(

Cheers
Jim

[Jim M]

Does anyone have any idea what is happening from here with 744 retirements?

I've seen nothing written about what is next to go and when,so any info would be great.

OJC and OJE haven't flown for a couple of days and i would have thought with the fleet reducing as much as it has,these two would have been flat out with JNB,NRT etc??

Again,any info would be great.

Cheers
Jim

[Stuart Trevena]

Hi All,

Jim, OJC is currently ops QF21 today (22/4) and return QF22 (23/4)

Stuart

[Jim M]

Thanks Stuart,I saw that late last night.

Does anyone know what's going on with OJE?

Cheers
Jim

[Fred C]

It should be doing the 21 the following night.

The sched has opened up a bit with the removal of the Frankfurt services.

[Jim M]

As always,thanks Fred for the info.

Cheers
Jim

[Brad Myer]

Don't think we will be seeing many more retirements with the current and planned B744 schedules.

VH-OEB will go in for a cabin reconfig in June with her current low density config changed to a 14/52/32/255 layout to match OJL and OJM. This should help with scheduling as all the B744s will have seating between 353 and 371 making aircraft swaps etc a lot easier than is currently possible.

Hope this helps

[Shayne G]

Brad, thanks for the updates. It does sound like good news.

I have been watching this retirement schedule for a while and it just doesn't seem possible for Qantas have 9 left in the fleet by years end like it has been said for years.

Is it possible VH-OJL, VH-OJM and VH-OEB (or two of the three) will soldier on past the end of 2013?

I think a fleet of 12 Boeing 747-400's would be a nice number for Qantas to continue on with for the next year or two as I can't see OJS/T/U & OEE-OEJ being able to do the current network without cutting/replacing more services currently using A333's.

Just my observations and opinion.

[Jim M]

Brad,I'm with Shayne,thanks for the updates. They are much appreciated and it sounds like good news to me.

Hopefully OJA,OJC,OJE and OJI won't depart too quickly either. Then I'll be really happy!!

Cheers
Jim

[Dennis McLean]

OJS is now back in service after a long time in maintenance at Avalon. Both OJE and OJI are now in Avalon. Any news? maintenance or the end of the line???

[Jim M]

I know OJI was scheduled to go down,but don't know for what reason.
OJE just had some tech issue that caused it to remain in JNB for 4 days,so maybe something to do with that.

I'd be surprised if it is end of line,as the pre-retirement stuff has been happening from SYD lately.

Jim

[Fred C]

I believe they are swapping the landing gear between the aircraft. I suspect one of them will be kept longer than the other. I suspect OJE will be the one going as OJI is having a 'C' check.

OJE's tech issue was rectified in JNB.

[Rory Delaney]

VH-OJH at Marana last month :(

[Jim M]

A very sad sight indeed Rory :(

I dare not ask,anyone know what is next and roughly when?

Cheers
Jim

[Rory Delaney]

VH-OJE is next, but not sure when.

[Kelvin R]

So if my maths is correct QF have 7 extra 744 in service over & above the 9 they plan on keeping. Is that correct?

It also seems that all but three of these aircraft are fully utilised across the network. So does that mean that NRT, HKG, BNE-SIN & SYD-SIN will all revert to 330 aircraft by end of the year?

Given that they are meant to be gone by end 2013 what are the aircraft that will replace them (and given they need 5 aircraft, where are they coming from)? Are JQ going to get 5 787 by years end with enough time to refurbish these aircraft to pass back to QF for international flying?

[Alex Lui]

I have read that NRT is staying a 744 for the foreseeable future as it actually has decent loads, both up front and in Economy.

Having done a dummy booking for March 2014, it seems that both BNE-SIN and SYD-SIN (QF5) are on the 744 so the 330 on them maybe a temporary thing?

Hong Kong having QF87/88 dropped I somehow do not see QF127/128 being downgraded to a 330 in the foreseeable future. It is a flight that has decent loads even in First, I am led to believe.

Alex.

[Ash W]

QF5 changes to a 744 4 or so times a week from next month with A330 the other days.

[Dave Dale]

I have read that NRT is staying a 744 for the foreseeable future as it actually has decent loads, both up front and in Economy.

Having done a dummy booking for March 2014, it seems that both BNE-SIN and SYD-SIN (QF5) are on the 744 so the 330 on them maybe a temporary thing?

Hong Kong having QF87/88 dropped I somehow do not see QF127/128 being downgraded to a 330 in the foreseeable future. It is a flight that has decent loads even in First, I am led to believe.

Alex.

Is the recent A330 deployments on Sydney-Singapore and Brisbane-Singapore due to VH-OEB on the Captain's Choice Tour?

Dave

[Stuart Trevena]

Hi All,

Don't forget that OJE and OJI are both in Avalon at the moment.

OEB arrived back in Sydney from Captains Choice Tour on 15th May, so she may still be in a hanger getting checked over.

Stuart

[Sarah C]

OEB left for HKG yesterday morning

[Kent Broadhead]

QF5 changes to a 744 4 or so times a week from next month with A330 the other days.

Is this possibly due to loads now that it isn't a through flight? QF81/82 does the same rotation daily (A333) a couple of hours earlier.

[Jim M]

VH-OJE is next, but not sure when.

Not too soon I hope Rory :(

Jim

[Jim M]

OJE arrived back in SYD tonight from AVV. Anyone know what's happening with her from here on?

Cheers
Jim

[Dave Dale]

Although not Qantas, I note that Air New Zealand's two 747's have been put up for lease by DVB Asia Bank. I don't think they have too much longer in New Zealand skies.

Dave

[Rory Delaney]

OJE arrived back in SYD tonight from AVV. Anyone know what's happening with her from here on?

Cheers
Jim

OJE will be around for a little longer, but should be retired this year. It was in Avalon with OJI to swap gears.

[Jim M]

OJE will be around for a little longer, but should be retired this year. It was in Avalon with OJI to swap gears.

Thanks Rory,that's good news for now!

Cheers
Jim

[Stuart Trevena]

Hi All,

Is there any word on OJA being retired?

She is currently heading to AVV as QF6019.

In not, which bird is next?

Stuart

[JamesL]

Apparently this aircraft went to ML, can anyone confirm?

[Shayne G]

VH-OJA positioned down to Melbourne to operate QF1202 MEL - SYD.

[Zac M]

Was that a charter or and extra?

[JamesL]

I was under the impression it was to cover QFA2 which terminated in MEL this morning.

[Tom PER]

There is a thread on airliners.net mentioning -OJE flies QF16 BNE-LAX then QF6021 onto VCV on 23/8.

[Sarah C]

I think they have their dates wrong. OJE positions SYD to BNE on Sunday morning, then operates QF15 to LAX. It then goes to VCV on Monday morning

[Dave Dale]

Hi all

Again, another sad post for the 747 fleet.

Has anyone heard anything about OJA? She certainly is showing the others up with her longevity!

Dave

[Jim M]

Remember all,OJE is due to leave SYD tomorrow morning for the last time,positioning up to BNE to operate her last revenue service to LAX.

Anyone who can snap a few shots,it would be much appreciated.

Another sad moment for the 744 fleet,and Australian aviation history :(

Jim

[Mark Grima]

Looks like she has left our shores?

OJE was in Sydney for some time since its previous revenue flight. What preparations would QF have done, seeing as though she still has the long hop to LAX on a revenue flight?

Cheers

M