Malaysia Airlines said it was reviewing the terms of its purchase agreement for six A380 jets after manufacturer Airbus advised only nine of the aircraft would be delivered in 2007.

"We have been advised by Airbus that only nine of the A380 jets would be delivered in 2007 to its launch customers," Malaysia Airlines said in a statement yesterday.

"In view of this development, Malaysia Airlines and PMB are reviewing the terms of the purchase agreement to decide on the next steps," the national carrier said, referring to its parent company Penerbangan Malaysia Berhad.

Available options

When asked if the statement meant that Malaysia Airlines was considering taking legal action, a spokesman said "it means the agreement has to be scrutinised for options that are available under such eventuality".

Airbus told clients Tuesday that delivery of the A380, which is designed to carry 555-840 passengers, would be delayed by an additional six to seven months because of production problems.

Airbus commercial director John Leahy said the problem lay with the manufacture and installation of wiring connections between sections of the fuselage, adding that "there will be late fees paid to clients".