Former Ryanair execs to join new Australian low-cost carrier

Qantas Airways Ltd said its board has approved the launch of a new low cost domestic carrier in May 2004.

Chief executive Geoff Dixon said in a statement that the as yet unnamed carrier will operate as a separate business with its own management and brand.

It will be established using the operation of the former low cost carrier Impulse, acquired by Qantas in May 2001, or by using a new "greenfield" company. A decision on which option will be made within six weeks on which option.

"This will be a true low cost carrier - lean, highly competitive and with the standards of safety and reliability associated with Qantas," Dixon said.

The airline is negotiating with Boeing, and Airbus among others to acquire 737-800 or A320 aircraft so the new carrier will have a minimum of 23 planes by mid-2005.

Alan Joyce has been appointed executive general manager of the new low cost carrier.

Dixon said a small team, including a number of former senior executives from European low cost carrier Ryanair, will assist Joyce to establish the new airline.