Originally Posted by
JALlover
Surprise that BA didn't expand on their 777-300, when most airlines are expanding on that.
Instead, they opt to diversify its aircraft fleet, which can be a cost burden in terms of maintenance.
BA have historically preferred long-haul aircraft with Rolls Royce engines. As nothing they have in service now dates to before privatisation, it isn't a "buy British" policy, but based on maintenance and operating costs, and reinforced by less than stellar performance of the 777-200s with GE engines - later orders for 777-200s had Rolls Royce engines fitted.
The 747-8 and the 777-300ER have only ever been available with GE engines, unlike their slightly smaller classmates the 747-400 and 777-200ER
Allegedly the 777-300ER was offered to BA by Boeing at a very advantageous price in part compensation for the severe delivery delays on the 787s they had already ordered. They only have 12 because the 787s finally started arriving, with, of course, Rolls Royce engines. Guess what, the A380s have Rolls Royce engines too....
It's IAG, BA's owners, who decide new purchases. They want commonality across all their airlines, and since apart from BA these are all-Airbus fleets, the A350 in its various sizes is the choice, with, inevitably, Rolls Royce engines.