Airbus Updates No.811

PAL orders 10 A330s for $2.5bn

• Philippine Airlines (PAL) has exercised options to buy 10 Airbus A330-300 aircraft for $2.5 billion, with deliveries planned in 2013-2014.
• 
  
• The deal was confirmed by company president and chief operating officer Ramon Ang.

Media reports from the Philippines quote Ang as saying that the company exercised the options two weeks ago.
Today's deal follows PAL's 54 Airbus buy in August worth $7 billion and comprising 34 A321s, 10 A321neos and 10 higher-weight Airbus A330-300s. The 10 aircraft deal today is also for the higher-weight A330.
Over the last few years, PAL has struggled to cope with the emergence of budget carrier Cebu Pacific, which now has the largest market share in the Philippines. The carrier had previously said that it wants to retire many of its older and uneconomical widebodies, and replace them with a new fleet to compete more effectively on the long-haul markets. The aim is to purchase a total of 100 new aircraft, PAL president Ramon Ang said.

Airbus Updates No.810

UPDATE 1-Emirates Airline's Clark says wants more Airbus A380s

Thu Sep 27, 2012

By Alwyn Scott

Sept 27 (Reuters) - Confirming growing demand for the world's largest airliner, a top executive of Emirates Airline said on Thursday the company would be willing to buy another 40 Airbus A380 jets, but that the fast-growing Dubai airport where the airline is based is short of room for them.

Emirates Airline President Tim Clark had already said the airline wants another 30 A380s, on top of 90 already on order. Increasing that number to 40 suggests demand is rising for the A380 made by the Airbus unit of Europe's EADS.

Emirates, by far the largest customer for the A380, whose list price is $390 million, had 23 of the superjumbo jets in service at the end of August.

Clark, speaking at an industry conference in Seattle, said there are seven A380s waiting in Hamburg, Germany, for delivery as part of the normal deliver schedule. He is not worried about his airline's strong growth being affected by recession in Europe, slowing growth in China and unrest in the Middle East. Dubai, he said, "is a honey pot. There is no place better, except maybe China."

Clark has been ratcheting up his demand for the 525-seat A380 jet since he surprised the aviation world in 2010 by saying the airline could buy 120 of the aircraft.

Emirates, one of Dubai's most prized assets, has continued to grow rapidly despite a regional debt crisis followed by a wider recession affecting the airline industry and high fuel prices.
"We don't cancel orders," Clark said. "We get on with it."

If Emirates carried out its ambition of operating a fleet of 130 A380s, adding 40 to its current order of 90, it would control a fleet worth over $50 billion at list prices and extend its dominance as the European planemaker' s largest customer.

Regarding the development of a revamped Boeing Co 777, Clark said that the first of its fleet of 777-300-ER jets are due to be retired in 2017, and Emirates would like to replace them with the updated 777, which promises much greater efficiencies.

Given that deadline, he said it was a good time to start "bellyaching" to get a new jet started. "I'm hoping to see it sooner rather than later."

A Boeing official said the company is developing options and "when we are satisfied with the risks, costs and schedule, we intend to present a plan for offering the airplane to customers that would enter the market late this decade."

Airbus Updates No.809

LAN Airlines becomes new customer for A320 Space-Flex cabin option

“Space-Flex” lavatory frees-up space for more comfort in A320 Family cabin

27 September 2012Press Release

LAN Airlines has placed an order for Airbus’ Space-Flex PRM (Persons with Reduced Mobility) lavatory option to equip new Airbus A320 aircraft. LAN joins TAM Airlines in selecting Space-Flex which creates more passenger comfort. This brings total orders for Space-Flex to equip 101 A320 Family aircraft.

LAN and TAM, which recently merged to form LATAM Airlines Group, is among the biggest Airbus customers in the world with nearly 400 orders aircraft combined, more than 200 aircraft in operation and an outstanding backlog that exceeds 180 Airbus aircraft.

“We are pleased to offer our passengers an innovative lavatory on the LAN new A320 Family aircraft,” said Fernanda Toro, LAN Travel Experience Director. “Space-Flex allows us to maximise the cabin, using space in the aircraft that was previously unused, while providing more flexibility.”

By making more efficient use of the volume at the rear of the cabin, two lavatories plus a galley can now be efficiently accommodated in this space, generating the following advantages:

• Freeing-up space for more passenger comfort, as with this new arrangement the revenue space of the cabin is maximized;

• Offering two lavatories each of comparable size to existing A320s i.e. larger than competitor lavatories;

• Providing a full PRM lavatory for the first time in a single-aisle aircraft. The ‘PRM-friendly’ lavatory is facilitated via a simple conversion process: two single Space-Flex lavatories are convertible into one PRM enclosure in a similar manner to those delivered on Airbus wide-body aircraft.

With around 8,600 A320 Family aircraft ordered, and over 5,200 aircraft delivered to over 370 customers and operators worldwide, the A318, A319, A320 and A321 make up the world's best-selling single-aisle aircraft family and are the preferred choice with traditional airlines and passengers, as well as with the fast-growing low-cost carrier market for which it is now the reference.
Headquartered in Toulouse, France, Airbus is an EADS company.

Airbus Updates No.808

THAI takes delivery of its first A380

Airline becomes ninth operator of world's most eco-efficient aircraft

27 September 2012

Thai Airways International (THAI) has taken delivery of its first A380, becoming the ninth airline to operate the world’s largest and most eco-efficient airliner. The aircraft was handed over to Captain Montree Jumrieng, Executive Vice President Technical, THAI, by Kiran Rao, Executive Vice President Sales and Marketing, Airbus, at a special ceremony in Toulouse today.

THAI has ordered six A380s, powered by Rolls-Royce Trent 900 engines. The airline has specified a premium three class layout for its fleet, seating a total of 507 passengers. All classes feature new cabin designs, with 12 private suites in First Class, 60 fully flat sleeper seats in Royal Silk Class and 435 seats in Economy. All seats are equipped with the latest on-demand in-flight entertainment systems, communication outlets and individual power supply.

“With the A380 THAI will elevate its Royal Orchid Service to a new level,” said Montree Jumrieng, Executive Vice President Technical, THAI. “In every class we are offering a new dimension in passenger appeal, from redesigned seating to the latest entertainment systems. These features, combined with the aircraft’s quiet and spacious cabin, will truly make the THAI A380 the smoothest way to fly.”

"We are extremely proud to welcome THAI as the latest operator of the A380," said John Leahy, Airbus Chief Operating Officer, Customers. "Today THAI joins a group of world class airlines that are redefining on-board comfort while flying more efficiently. With the A380 THAI will be well placed to meet the strong growth in air travel in the Asia-Pacific region in the most cost-effective way possible.”

THAI will inaugurate commercial service with the A380 in early October on the Bangkok – Hong Kong and Bangkok – Singapore routes. As more aircraft are delivered, the airline will begin service to Frankfurt at the end of the year, followed by Tokyo and Paris early in 2013.

Since first entering service in 2007, the A380 has exceeded all expectations, flying more people further at lower cost and with less impact on the environment. The spacious, quiet cabin and smooth ride have also made the A380 a firm favourite with passengers, resulting in higher load factors and increased profitability on all routes where the aircraft is operated.

The A380 is capable of flying 8,500 nautical miles or 15,700 kilometres non-stop. From Bangkok this enables non-stop service with a full payload to any destination in Europe or one-stop service to anywhere in the US.

Airbus Updates No.807

Airbus A320  -232  5296     9V-SLQ  Silk Air  delivery 25sep12 XFW-SHJ-SIN  ex D-AXAN
 Airbus A320  -232  5298     VT-IFD  IndiGo  delivery 26sep12 XFW-DEL  ex D-AXAQ
 Airbus A321  -232  2927     VQ-BRO  Nordwind Airlines  N-reg canx 18sep12, delivery 23-24sep12 TLC-YHZ-SEN   ex N927AG
 Airbus A321  -231  5303     B-6957  Sichuan Airlines  delivery 28sep12 XFW-OVB  ex D-AZAN
 Airbus A330  -301  55     AP-BKL  Shaheen Air  for delivery 28sep12 ORY-KHI  ex VQ-BEU
 Airbus A330  -343  1343     B-LAP  Cathay Pacific  delivery 28sep12 TLS-HKG  ex F-WWCH
 Airbus A330  -343  1345     VQ-BPK  Aeroflot  delivery 25sep12 TLS-SVO  ex F-WWCI
 Airbus A340  -313  257     AP-EDF  Air Blue  delivery 29sep12 IST-ISB  ex TC-JIK
 Airbus A380  -841  87     HS-TUA  Thai International  delivery 28sep12 TLS-BKK  ex F-WWAO

Turkish Airlines Leased A330 EI-EZL seen at London Heathrow.

Airbus Updates No.806

Airbus A310  -304  519     TC-SGC  Saga Airlines  ferried 27sep12 IST-ESB-MHD after storage  ex VT-EVI
 Airbus A319  -114  1126     VP-BTN  S7 Airlines  ferried 28sep12 WOE-DME after paint into oneWorld cs   ex N307NB
 Airbus A319  -111  1753     EI-ETP  Rossiya Airlines  regd 27sep12, arrv LED 28sep12 on delivery  ex B-2339
 Airbus A319  -112  1808     OH-LVF  Finnair  feried 28sep12 HHEL-DUB, primer, on return to lessor  ex D-AVWG
 Airbus A319  -111  4837     HB-JYB  easyJet Switzerland  ferried 25sep12 LTN-GVA, re-regd 26sep12  ex G-EZGR
 Airbus A319  -112  5293     D-AIBJ  Lufthansa  delivery 28sep12 XFW-FRA  ex D-AVWA
 Airbus A320  -211  146     EC-GRH  Vueling  ferried 25sep12 BCN-MAD prior part-out & scrap  ex EC-FBR
 Airbus A320  -231  440     PT-MZN  TAM  ferried 18-19sep12 CNF-CCS-MIA-MCI for part-out & scrap   ex ZS-SHG
 Airbus A320  -214  533     EI-DDL  BBAM / Fly Leasing  seen painted all wh at DUB 25sep12 (+ 566 EI-ERV ex SP-IAB)  ex SP-IAA
 Airbus A320  -232  1368     PT-MZK  TAM  ferried 25-26sep12 VCP-CCS-MIA-VCV, all wh, to be regd N863AG  ex F-WWIJ
 Airbus A320  -214  2407     EC-JGM  Vueling  ferried 27sep12 DUS-BCN after wet-lease to XL Airways Germany  ex F-WWDC
 Airbus A320  -214  2665     9H-AEN  Air Malta  ferried 29sep12 OSR-MLA after paint into new livery  ex F-WWBN
 Airbus A320  -232  2676     SU-NMC  Nesma Airlines  delivery 25sep12 SEN-CAI  ex N676AG
 Airbus A320  -232  5201     HS-TXD  Thai Smile  delivery 29sep12 XFW-DXB-BKK  ex D-AXAU
 Airbus A320  -214  5264     B-LPF  Hong Kong Airlines  delivery 24-25sep12 TLS-AUH-HKG   ex F-WWIA
 Airbus A320  -214  5266     B-LPG  Hong Kong Airlines  delivery 24-25sep12 TLS-AUH-HKG   ex F-WWIB
 Airbus A320  -214  5276     A6-ANL  Air Arabia  delivery 27sep12 TLS-SHJ  ex F-WWIM
 Airbus A320  -214  5278     PR-ONK  Avianca Brasil  for delivery 01oct12 TLS-TFS-NAT  ex F-WWBB
 Airbus A320  -216  5283     HS-ABZ  Thai Air Asia  delivery 28sep12 TLS-SHJ-BKK  ex F-WWIH
 Airbus A320  -214  5289     G-EZWE  easyJet  delivery 28sep12 XFW-LGW  ex D-AXAL

Airbus Updates No.805

Thai Airways today recieve their first Airbus A380 at toulouse.
Thais website below has live streaming of the hand over at 1100 local time, click on the link below to watch

http://www.thaiairways.com/

Airbus Updates No.804

Airbus A320  -232  2676     SU-NMC  Nesma Airlines  delivery 24sep12 SEN-CAI  ex N676AG
Airbus A320  -214  5264     B-LPF  Hong Kong Airlines  delivery 24-25sep12 TLS-AUH-HKG   ex F-WWIA
 Airbus A320  -214  5266     B-LPG  Hong Kong Airlines  delivery 24-25sep12 TLS-AUH-HKG   ex F-WWIB

Airbus Updates No.803

Best looking A380 so far..................To become HS-TUA

First Airbus A320-216 Airbus For Thai Air Asia to be HS-ABZ c/n 5283

Air Cote d'Ivoire Airbus A319-115LR c/n 2228 F-GRXH to become TU-TSB

Airbus Updates No.802

AirAsia close to ordering 100 Airbus aircraft

AirAsia is close to placing an order for 100 Airbus aircraft to aid its international expansion.

A plan to acquire the additional aircraft will be submitted to its board in about two weeks, says group chief executive Tony Fernandes.

The 100 aircraft to be ordered will be narrowbodies including the Airbus A320neo, sources say.

The low-cost carrier already has 200 A320neos and 70 A320-200s on order. More aircraft, however, are needed for the expansion of its affiliates in Indonesia, Thailand, Japan and Philippines.

"Fleet roll out meeting now. Lots of growth. As been saying need more planes. Especially in Indonesia," says Fernandes in a tweet today.

Last month, AirAsia was also given the green light to acquire Indonesia's Batavia Air. Batavia operates five A320s, one A321, two A330-200s and 25 737s. Part of AirAsia's plan is also to replace Batavia's older Boeing aircraft with new ones from Airbus.

AirAsia Indonesia operates 19 A320s. Fernandes had previously said that the affiliate needs six aircraft in 2012, but "we don't have enough to give them".

AirAsia Philippines and AirAsia Japan were also launched this year. 

Airbus Updates No.801

Airbus A318  -112CJ  4732     B-6936  GCL-Poly Energy  delivery 22sep12 XFW-OVB  ex F-WHUK
Airbus A320  -212  407     SX-GRN  GreenJet Airlines  delivery 19-21sep12 MZJ-YUL-YYT-SNN-ATH, N-reg, all wh   ex N407BV
Airbus A321  -231  5300     N560UW  US Airways  delivery 22sep12 XFW-BGR-PIT  ex D-AZAM
Airbus A330  -323  1347     9M-MTJ  Malaysia Airlines  delivery 21sep12 TLS-KUL  ex F-WWCM

Airbus Updates No.800

Airbus ACJ319 makes first appearance at South African show

Showcases widest and tallest cabin of any corporate jet

21 September 2012

Airbus’ ACJ319 is making its South African airshow debut at AAD[1] giving visitors from the region their first chance to experience the aircraft’s comfort and space at first hand, as well as to compare it with other aircraft on display.

Similar in size externally to competing aircraft, the Airbus ACJ319’s distinguishing feature is that it has the widest and tallest cabin of any business jet, delivering unequalled comfort, space and freedom of movement – as well as the ability to carry more people.

The Airbus ACJ319 on display is operated by Comlux, seats 19 passengers, and is available for VVIP charter. In daytime, the cabin provides tables at which to work, a lounge area for discussions, and the privacy of two offices. At night, many of the seats convert to beds and the offices to bedrooms, making the best practical and productive use of space.

Like all Airbus corporate jets, the Airbus ACJ319 features intercontinental range, allowing it to fly nonstop throughout Africa – as well as to reach much of the world with a single stop.

“Any corporate jet can save you time and money by making you more productive, but only Airbus corporate jets can do so with more capacity, capability and comfort, making them increasingly the preferred choice of companies, individuals and governments around the world,” points out Airbus Chief Operating Officer, Customers, John Leahy. “For customers that want to carry even more people even farther, we also offer corporate jet versions of our modern widebody family, which have ‘nonstop to the world’ range,” he adds.

Airbus corporate jets brings have excellent reliability – a tribute to their airliner heritage – as well as being backed by a comprehensive worldwide support network. And with more than 470 Airbus customers and operators around the world, Airbus corporate jet clients invariably have access to maintenance facilities in their own country – often a key issue, especially with governments.

Airbus has sold some 170 corporate jets to date, and its aircraft are the only ones flying on every continent, including Antarctica, highlighting their versatility. Customers comprise companies, individuals and governments, in roughly equal measure.

Airbus Updates No.799

Airbus A300  B4-203F  219     EI-OZI  Air Contractors  DHL cs, ferried 20sep12 LEJ-EGBP for storage  ex OO-DLZ
 Airbus A300  -622R(F)  703     D-AEAN  EAT Leipzig  ferried 18sep12 DUB-LEJ after paint int DHL cs  ex N4703
 Airbus A310  -304  495     CS-TEI  HiFly  ferried 21sep12 BRU-JED on Hajj-lease to Nas Air   ex F-WWCO
 Airbus A310  -304  565     CS-TEX  HiFly  ferried 21sep12 LIS-JED on Hajj-lease to Nas Air   ex F-WWCC
 Airbus A319  -114  1126     VP-BTN  S7 Airlines  ferried 21sep12 DME-WOE for paint into oneWorld cs   ex N307NB
 Airbus A319  -115LR  2213     TU-TSA  Air Côte d Ivoire  for delivery 21sep12** TLS-ABJ  ex F-GRXG
 Airbus A319  -112  5284     D-AIBI  Lufthansa  delivery 21sep12 XFW-FRA  ex D-AVYY
 Airbus A320  -212  407     N407BV  AerCap  ferried 19-21sep12 MZJ-YUL-YYT-SNN-ATH, all wh on delivery to GreenJet  ex A9C-ER
Airbus A320  -232  2670     EI-EWS  BBAM / Fly Leasing Ltd  ferried 19sep12 SAW-DUB, Kingfisher cs  ex VT-KFK
 Airbus A320  -214  5260     B-LPE  Hong Kong Airlines  delivery 19-20sep12 TLS-AUH-HKG   ex F-WWDY
 Airbus A320  -232  5268     B-6911  China Southern  delivery 18sep12 TLS-TSE-CAN  ex F-WWIC
 Airbus A320  -232  5270     VH-VFI  Jetstar  delivery 19sep12 TLS-MCT-SIN  ex F-WWIF
 Airbus A320  -216  5272     9M-AQN  Air Asia  delivery 18sep12 TLS-SHJ-KUL  ex F-WWII
 Airbus A320  -232  5274     JA05JJ  Jetstar Japan  delivery 21sep12 TLS-DXB  ex F-WWIJ
Airbus A321  -231  5292     N559UW  US Airways  delivery 18sep12 XFW-BGR-PIT  ex DAZAJ
 Airbus A330  -223  343     N772RD  Ryan International  ferried 14sep12 RFD-SAW on wet-lease to AtlasJet, in svc 20sep12 SAW-ESB-MED   ex TC-ETP
Airbus A330  -243  966     C-GTSR  Air Transat  ferried 18-19sep12 YUL-ATH-SOC on Hajj-lease to Garuda   ex XA-MXP
Airbus A330  -343  1338     HS-TBD  Thai International  delivery 19sep12 TLS-FRA for seat configuration   ex F-WWCB

Airbus Updates No.798

Airbus A319  -115LR  2213     TU-TSA  Air Côte d Ivoire  delivery 14sep12 TLS-ABJ  ex F-GRXG
Airbus A320  -211  279     YL-LCJ  smartLynx Airlines  ferried 17sep12 NCL-HEL after one day** wet-lease Thomas Cook  ex N549CL
 Airbus A320  -211  333     YL-LCA  smartLynx Airlines  ferried 17sep12 TLL-NCL on wet-lease to Thomas Cook   ex 4X-ABC
Airbus A320  -214  5260     B-LPE  Hong Kong Airlines  delivery 17-18sep12 TLS-AUH-HKG   ex F-WWDY
 Airbus A320  -232  5270     VH-VFI  Jetstar  delivery 18sep12 TLS-MCT-SIN  ex F-WWIF
 Airbus A320  -216  5272     9M-AQN  Air Asia  delivery 18sep12 TLS-SHJ-KUL  ex F-WWII
Airbus A330  -243  254     G-MLJL  Thomas Cook Airlines  ferried 18sep12 MAN-SHJ-BTN on Hajj-lease to Garuda Indonesia  ex F-WWKT
Airbus A330  -243  265     G-EOMA  Monarch Airlines  ferried 18sep12 MAN-PDG on Hajj-lease to Garuda Indonesia   ex F-WWKU
 Airbus A330  -243  271     C-GITS  Air Transat  ferried 17-18sep12 YYZ-ATH-CGK on Hajj-lease to Garuda   ex F-WWKY
 Airbus A330  -343  407     C-GTSD  Air Transat  ferried 16-17sep12 YUL-ATH-CGK on Hajj-lease to Garuda   ex TC-SGJ
 Airbus A330  -243  480     C-GPTS  Air Transat  ferried 17-18sep12 YUL-ATH-CGK on Hajj-lease to Garuda   ex F-WWKV
 Airbus A330  -243  1342     N342AV  Avianca  delivery 18sep12 TLS-BOG, Star Alliance cs   ex F-WWCK

Airbus Updates No.797

Airbus A320  -214  2665     9H-AEN  Air Malta  ferried 16sep12 MLA-OSR, 1st for paint into new corporate ID   ex F-WWBN
 Airbus A321  -231  1843     D-ALAB  Lufthansa Technik  ferried 17sep12 SNN-SEN  ex EC-IJU
Airbus A330  -327  72     TC-OCA  Onur Air  Saudi Arabian cs, ferried 14/16sep12 ZRH-LDE-IST prior Hajj-ops  ex EC-IJH
 Airbus A330  -243  635     F-GSEU  XL Airways France  ferried 16sep12 CDG-PLM on Hajj-lease to Garuda   ex F-WWYO
 Airbus A330  -343  833     CS-TRH  Orbest  ferried 16sep12 MAD-RKT on Hajj-lease to Garuda   ex EC-KCP
 Airbus A330  -343  1097     EC-LEQ  Orbest  ferried 16sep12 MAD-RKT on Hajj-lease to Garuda   ex F-WWKL
Airbus A340  -313  161     B-2383  China Eastern  ferried 17sep12 PVG-LDE on return to lessor  ex F-WWJQ

Airbus Updates No.796

Airbus A310  -304  494     CS-TQV  White  ferried 15sep12 LIS-FJR on Hajj-lease to ?  ex PR-WTA
 Airbus A319  -115LR  2213     TU-TSA  Air Côte d Ivoire  delivery 14sep12 TLS-ABJ  ex F-GRXG
 Airbus A319  -112  4663     D-ASTA  Gambia Bird Airlines  positioned 14sep12 TXL-BJL   ex D-AVYF
 Airbus A319  -133  5286     B-6433  Sichuan Airlines  delivery 12sep12 XFW-OVB  ex D-AVWZ
Airbus A320  -214  2407     EC-JGM  Vueling  ferried 06sep12 BCN-FRA on wet-lease to XL Airways Germany till 31oct12  ex F-WWDC
 Airbus A320  -232  2676     SU-  Nesma Airlines  delivery 14-15sep12 TLC-YHZ-SEN, N-reg  ex N676AG
Airbus A321  -231  3512     G-MEDN  bmi British Midland  ferried 09sep12 MAD-LHR after paint into British Airways cs  ex D-AVZK
 Airbus A321  -231  5257     A9C-CD  Gulf Air  onward delivery 14sep12 TLS-BAH  ex D-AZAA
 Airbus A321  -231  5287     HL8265  Asiana  delivery 12-13sep12 XFW-OVB-ICN   ex D-AZAI
 Airbus A330  -327  72     TC-OCA  Onur Air  Saudi Arabian cs, ferried 14sep12 ZRH-LDE on return to lessor  ex EC-IJH
 Airbus A380  -841  88     B-6139  China Southern  delivery 14sep12 TLS-CAN  ex F-WWAR

Airbus Updates No.795

AirAsia to become first Airbus A320 ‘Sharklets’ operator

Airbus and the world’s largest A320 customer AirAsia announced that the airline will become the first operator of the A320 with ‘Sharklets’ when they take delivery of the first A320 equipped with these fuel-saving wing-tip devices at the end of this year. The aircraft exhibited on static and flying display at the ILA Berlin Air Show is the flight test aircraft for CFM engines and will also be delivered to AirAsia in 2013.

"The A320 has played a key role in our success, enabling us to offer our passengers the lowest fares possible and completely redefine short haul travel in Asia.” said Tony Fernandes, AirAsia Group CEO. “Now we are looking forward to become the first airline in the world to start operating this most fuel-efficient aircraft.”

“AirAsia is one of the fastest growing, most innovative and well-respected brands in the airline industry” said John Leahy, Airbus Chief Operating Officer, Customers. “It is a great endorsement that they have chosen our latest, fuel-saving aircraft of our successful A320 Family”. 

Airbus Updates No.794

Airbus A300  -622R(F)  679     D-AEAL  EAT Leipzig  ferried 07sep12 DUB-MAD after paint into DHL cs  ex N4679
 Airbus A300  -622R(F)  703     D-AEAN  EAT Leipzig  ferried 07sep12 DRS-DUB for paint into DHL cs after conversion  ex N4703
Airbus A319  -112  4663     D-ASTA  Gambia Bird Airlines  ferried 04/09sep12 FMM-NWI-TXL for paint   ex D-AVYF

 Airbus A320  -214  1937     OE-LBI  Austrian Airlines  delivery 10sep12 MPL-VIE in full cs   ex F-WTDC
Airbus A320  -214  2619     D-ABDB  Air Berlin  ferried / in svc 07sep12 PAD-DUS-MUC-DUS in basic OLT Express cs   ex SP-IAH
Airbus A320  -232  2863     LZ-BHH  BH Air  delivery 07sep12   ex VT-INB
Airbus A320  -214  5253     F-OMRC  MEA Middle East  delivery 05/08sep12 TLS-LIS-BEY  ex F-WWDN
 Airbus A321  -231  1878     TC-ATO  AtlasJet  in svc 09sep12 IST-DLM-IST  ex YI-AQU
Airbus A321  -211  5271     VP-BDC  Aeroflot  delivery 08sep12 XFW-SVO  ex D-AZAD

Airbus Updates No.793

Airbus A319  -112  5280     N524TA  TACA  delivery 06sep12 XFW-KEF-YYZ-SAL   ex D-AVYX
 Airbus A320  -211  204     N204AR  AAR A/c Sales   ferried 05-07sep12 MLA-MIR-KEF-BGR-CEW for part-out & scrap   ex EI-DFN
 Airbus A320  -212  421     EI-DNP  (WindJet)  ferried by lessor 05-06sep12 MLA-CAI-MCT-MLE-CGK   ex A4O-EF
Airbus A320  -214  2619     D-ABDB  Air Berlin  ferried / in svc 07sep12 PAD-DUS-MUC-DUS in basic OLT Express cs   ex SP-IAH
Airbus A320  -232  2844     LZ-BHG  BH Air  ferried 30-31aug12 BOJ-SHJ-RGN on wet-lease to Myanmar AW Intl   ex VT-INA
Airbus A320  -214  5234     CC-BFA  LAN Airlines  delivery 06-07sep12 XFW-LPA-REC-SCL   ex D-AVVT
Airbus A321  -231  5257     A9C-CD  Gulf Air  delivery 06sep12 XFW-TLS  ex D-AZAA
 Airbus A321  -211  5271     VP-BDC  Aeroflot  for delivery 08sep12 XFW-SVO  ex D-AZAD
 Airbus A321  -231  5275     VN-A339  Vietnam Airlines  delivery 06sep12 XFW-BAK-HAN  ex D-AZAE
Airbus A340  -213  4     HZ-124  Royal Saudi Air Force  ferried 06sep12 RUH-HAM after storage  ex F-WWBA
 Airbus A380  -841  92      9V-SKT  Singapore Airlines  delivery 06sep12 TLS-SIN  ex F-WWSA

Airbus Updates No.792

The month in review: August 2012

	A300/A310	A318/319/320/321	A330/A340/A350	A380	Total
Total orders	816	8630	2160	257	11863
Total deliveries	816	5232	1277	81	7406
Aircraft in operation	481	5071	1257	81	6890

Airbus marked several achievements in August, with the 114 orders adding new customers for both its A320neo and A350-1000, as well as taking total A320 Family bookings above the 8,600 mark; while the 38 aircraft provided to customers included the first A330-200F for a new operator of this mid-sized freighter, along with another A380 for the flagship jetliner’s largest airline user.

The August orders were led by Philippine Airlines’ contract for 34 A321ceo (current engine option) and 10 A321neo (new engine option) aircraft, plus 10 A330-300s. This carrier’s purchase supports a major fleet modernisation programme.

Another major booking was China’s ICBC Financial Leasing Co. Ltd. order for 30 A320ceo and 20 A320neo jetliners. In addition to making ICBC Leasing the A320neo’s first Chinese customer, the booking expands this company’s Airbus portfolio in anticipation of increasing aviation market demand across China and the Asia-Pacific region, as well as elsewhere in the world.

Completing the month’s new business was Cathay Pacific’s order for 10 A350-1000s, plus a conversion of 16 of its A350-900s into the -1000 version. This makes the Hong Kong-based airline the fifth A350-1000 customer, and follows its Farnborough Airshow announcement for the booking, which subsequently was approved by Cathay Pacific’s board as planned.

With the August transactions, Airbus’ total net orders so far in 2012 totalled 384 aircraft.

Deliveries in August were composed of 32 single-aisle A320 Family jetliners, along with five widebody A330s and one A380. They bring overall deliveries in 2012 through August to 364 aircraft, received by 74 customers.

Operators taking multiple A320 Family deliveries during the month included Air Berlin, Air China, Avianca, China Eastern Airlines, easyJet, IndiGo, Sichuan Airlines, SMBC Aviation Capital (for Thai Smile) and US Airways.

For Airbus twin-engine widebodies, deliveries were the first A330-200F cargo aircraft for MNG Airlines – Turkey’s dedicated freight operator, an A330-200 passenger aircraft for China Southern Airlines, and one A330-300 each to Air China, AerCap (for Virgin Atlantic) and Malaysia Airlines.

An A380 received by Emirates in August marked the 14th delivered by Airbus so far in 2012, and the 81st provided to eight operators worldwide. These airlines are performing a combined total of more than 100 flights daily with the double-deck airliner, carrying over 1 million passengers per month.

Airbus Updates No.791

Another glimpse back into the past with another log provided by John Spencer (who is fast becoming the blogs and my very own Historian)....

this time we go back to the 2nd March 2006 and a trip to Hamburg...................

DAVYT/GEZAF                                   A319                                      2715                       EZY

DAVXJ/N516NK                                 A319                                      2704                       SPIRIT

DAVYI/GEZAE                                    A319                                      2709                       EZY

DAVXG/GEZAG                                  A319                                      2727                       EZY

DAVWC/GDBCI                                  A319                                      2720                       BMI

FWWIZ/N634JB                                 A320                                      2710                       JET BLUE

DAVXL/B6222                                    A319                                      2733                       CAPITAL

DAVXN/TCJLM                                   A319                                      2738                       THY

DAVXP/GEZAJ                                    A319                                      2742                       EZY

DAVYB/VPBEX                                   A319                                      2706                       SONAIR

DAVYP/VPBEY                                   A319                                      2675                       SONAIR **

DAVZO/CNROF                                 A321                                      2726                       RAM

DAVWE/N519NK                              A319                                      2723                       SPIRIT

DAVYZ/N518NK                                A319                                      2718                       SPIRIT

DAVYL/B6221                                    A319                                      2746                       HAINAN

DAVZB/JYAYG                                    A321                                      2730                       ALIA

DAVZJ/ECJQZ                                      A321                                      2736                       IB

FWWAF/N172UP                               A300                                      867                         UPS

FWWAG/N173UP                              A300                                      868                         UPS

DAUAB/FGUGM                                A318                                      2750                       AF

DAVWD/N945FR                              A318                                      2751                       FRONTIER

DAVWB/N3618F                               A318                                      2748                      

FWWAL                                              A300                                      872

DAVXQ/GEZAK                                  A319                                      2744                       EZY

DAVXO/TCJLN                                   A319                                      2739                       THY

DAVXM/GEZAI                                  A319                                      2735                       EZY

FGKXL                                                 A320                                      2705

FWWBD/B6278                                 A320                                      2714                       CHINA SOUTHERN

DAVZF/FGYAJ                                    A321                                      2707                      

DAVYM/N517NK                              A319                                      2711                       SPIRIT

 

**Also carried DAIJO!!!!

Airbus Updates No.790

First A350 XWB wing arrives in Toulouse for ground tests

4 September 2012Press Release

The first wing for the A350 XWB has arrived at Airbus’ final assembly line in Toulouse (France) where the new generation Airbus wide-body aircraft is being assembled. This first wing, which will not fly, is destined for the A350 XWB airframe used for static structural tests on the ground that all new aircraft undergo as part of their certification process. The A350 XWB wings, as for all Airbus aircraft, are made at Airbus’ Broughton (UK) site.

The A350 XWB wing covers are 32 metres long by six metres wide, making them the biggest single civil aviation parts made from carbon fibre composite material. The wings’ advanced structural design and superior aerodynamics are both significant contributors to the 25% fuel saving performance of the A350 XWB. 

Airbus Updates No.789

Demand spurs need for over 28,000 aircraft in the next 20 years.

Over 10,000 passenger jets to be replaced by newer fuel efficient models

4 September 2012Press Release

Airbus’ latest Global Market Forecast (GMF) identifies a need for some 28,200 passenger and freighter aircraft (of 100 seats or more) between 2012 and 2031 worth nearly US$4.0 trillion, reconfirming an upward trend in the pace of new aircraft deliveries. Of these over 27,350 will be passenger aircraft valued at US$ 3.7 trillion.

Passenger traffic will grow at an average annual rate of 4.7 percent in the next 20 years, during which some 10,350 aircraft will be replaced by new efficient models. By 2031 the world’s passenger fleet will have expanded by 110 percent from slightly over 15,550 today to over 32,550. In the same period, the world’s freighter fleet will almost double from 1,600 to 3,000 aircraft.

Emerging economic regions will represent more than half of all traffic growth in the next 20 years. Increasing urbanisation and the doubling of the world’s middle classes to five billion people is also driving growth. By 2031 mega cities will more than double to 92 and over 90 percent of the world’s traffic will be between or through these points.

“Aside from growth in international traffic, by 2031 four of the world’s biggest traffic flows will all be domestic - US, China, Intra Western Europe and India – and these account for a third of world traffic,” says John Leahy, Airbus Chief Operating Officer Customers. “In 20 years from now, China’s domestic passenger traffic will overtake the US domestic traffic to become the number one traffic flow in our forecast. Aviation is not just essential for international commerce, but also for domestic economies too.”

Asia Pacific will account for 35 percent of all new aircraft deliveries, followed by Europe and North America with 21 percent each. In value terms, the single biggest market is China followed by the US, UAE and India.

Over 1,700 Very Large Aircraft (VLA - 400 seats and above) like the A380 will have been delivered by 2031, valued at US$600 billion. Of these over 1,330 are passenger aircraft valued at some US$500 billion (13 percent by value of passenger deliveries, 5 percent of units). Asia Pacific leads demand (46 percent) for these high capacity aircraft, followed by the Middle East (23 percent) and Europe (19 percent).

Demand for twin-aisle aircraft (250 to 400 seats), like the A330 and the A350 XWB, some 6,970 new passenger and freighter aircraft will be delivered valued at some US$1.7 trillion. Of these, 6,500 are passenger aircraft valued at US$1.6 trillion (44 percent by value of passenger deliveries, 24 percent of units). Leading demand is Asia Pacific (46 percent), Europe (17 percent) and the North America (13 percent)

In the next 20 years, over 19,500 single-aisle aircraft worth over US$1,6 trillion will be delivered (43 percent of passenger deliveries by value, 71 percent by units). A third of deliveries will be in Asia Pacific followed by North America (25 percent) and Europe (22 percent). Some 30 percent of all deliveries in this category will be for Low Cost Carriers.

Airbus Updates No.788

A quiet start to the month at Airbus...............


Airbus A319  -112  1352  1783  OH-LVD  Finnair  ferried 01sep12 LIS-HEL after paint into oneWorld cs  ex D-AVYW
 Airbus A319  -112  1791     OH-LVE  Finnair  ferried 04sep12 LIS:HEL after storage and paint into all white   ex D-AVYS
 Airbus A320  -232  1969     VP-BCU  Yamal Airlines  delivery 04sep12 SEN-TJM  ex EI-ELE
Airbus A320  -214  5253     F-OMRC  MEA Middle East  delivery 04sep12 TLS-LIS  ex F-WWDN
Airbus A321  -231  5282     N558UW  US Airways  for delivery 06sep12 XFW-BGR-PIT  ex D-AZAG

Airbus Updates no.787

Incident: Thomas Cook A332 over Atlantic on Aug 28th 2012, hydraulic leak

A Thomas Cook Airbus A330-200, registration G-MLJL performing flight MT-134 from London Gatwick,EN (UK) to Holguin (Cuba), was enroute at FL390 over the Atlantic Ocean at about N40 W40 about 3 hours into the crossing when the crew decided to turn around and return to London Gatwick reporting they were losing hydraulic fluid. On the way back the crew reported the failure of the hydraulic system. The aircraft landed safely on Gatwick's runway 26L about 4 hours after turning around and about 8 hours after departure.   Incident: PAL A320 at Tacloban on Aug 29th 2012, bird strike A PAL Philippine Airlines Airbus A320-200, registration RP-C8615 performing flight PR-191 from Manila to Tacloban (Philippines) with 94 people on board, was touching down on Tacloban's runway 18 when a flock of wild ducks did not manage to duck away from the engines and several birds were ingested by one of the engines (CFM56). The aircraft rolled out safely. A runway inspection needed to remove a number of dead ducks from the runway. The airline said the aircraft sustained damage to fan blades of an engine causing the return flight PR-192 to be cancelled.   Incident: Vueling A320 near Amsterdam on Aug 29th 2012, intermittent loss comm A Vueling Airbus A320-200, registration EC-LML performing flight VY-8366 from Malaga,SP (Spain) to Amsterdam (Netherlands) with 183 people on board, was descending towards Amsterdam and was about to be handed off from Belgium to Dutch control when the radio contact with Dutch air traffic control frequencies was intermittently lost prompting two fighter aircraft to be dispatched with the alert the aircraft might have been hijacked. The fighter aircraft escorted the aircraft to Amsterdam, where the aircraft landed safely on Amsterdam's 18R and stopped on a taxiway near the runway, where security forces surrounded the aircraft. Following landing communication with the crew was fully restored, the crew reported no security problem on board. Confusion arose when Dutch military initially confirmed a possible hijack of the aircraft. Later the military confirmed the fighter aircraft were dispatched because of loss of communication on hand off from Belgium to Netherlands. Passengers reported the situation on board was normal all time. They were kept on the aircraft for about 4 hours after landing. The airline confirmed an intermittent loss of communication but said there was no other issue. The intermittent loss of communication obviously prompted Dutch air traffic controllers to assume a security problem on board of the aircraft and to issue relevant alerts. The crew is currently being interviewed how and why the communication with ATC was lost. Incident: Wizz A320 at Gdansk on Aug 29th 2012, bird strike   A Wizz Air Airbus A320-200, registration HA-LPR performing flight W6-1739 from Gdansk (Poland) to Malmo (Sweden), was climbing out of Gdansk's runway 11 when a bird collided with the aircraft prompting the crew to level off at 5000 feet and return to Gdansk for a safe landing on runway 11 about 15 minutes after departure. A replacement Airbus A320-200 registration HA-LWD reached Malmo with a delay of 2.5 hours. Incident: Jet Airways A332 near Amritsar on Aug 29th 2012, medical emergency A Jet Airways Airbus A330-200, registration VT-JWE performing flight 9W-141 (dep Aug 28th) from Milan Malpensa (Italy) to New Delhi (India), was enroute near Amritsar (India) when a girl (3), travelling with her parents and brother, started badly vomiting and stopped breathing. While cabin crew provided first aid the flight crew diverted the aircraft to Amritsar for a safe landing. The girl and family were taken to a hospital, the girl however was pronounced dead upon arrival at the hospital. The aircraft reached New Delhi with a delay of 2 hours.   Incident: Shenzhen A320 near Wuhan on Aug 30th 2012, threatening message A Shenzhen Airlines Airbus A320-200, registration B-6312 performing flight ZH-9706 from Xiangfan to Shenzhen (China), was about 45 minutes into the flight when a threatening message was received prompting the crew to divert the aircraft to Wuhan (China) for a safe landing. The airline reported a threatening message against the aircraft was received, the aircraft diverted to Wuhan. The passengers were taken to hotels over night. Passengers weibed (reported on China's Weibo service similiar to Twitter) the captain told them a message indicating explosives on board had been received. The aircraft diverted to Wuhan and was searched for explosives, they had all to collect their luggage and have the luggage and all personal belongings searched for explosives, too.  Incident: Iberia A343 near Montevideo on Aug 30th 2012, electrical problem An Iberia Airbus A340-300, registration EC-GGS performing flight IB-6012 from Montevideo (Uruguay) to Madrid,SP (Spain) with 280 passengers, was climbing out of Montevideo when the crew stopped the climb at FL250 reporting electrical problems and entered a hold for about 90 minutes. The aircraft returned to Montevideo for a safe landing on runway 24 about 165 minutes after departure. The flight was postponed to the next day, the incident aircraft just departed with a delay of 24 hours. Airport sources reported the crew did not request assistance, dumped fuel over Rio de la Plata and returned for a safe landing following an electrical fault on board. Incident: PIA A313 near Quetta on Aug 31st 2012, generator failure A PIA Pakistan International Airlines Airbus A310-300, registration AP-BGS performing flight PK-206 from Kuwait (Kuwait) to Lahore (Pakistan) with 160 passengers, was enroute near Quetta (Pakistan) when the crew decided to divert to Quetta due to a generator failure (engine PW4156). The aircraft landed safely.

Airbus Updates No.786

Assembly line in China completes the 100th A320 Family aircraft

Airbus and Chinese partners agree on a framework concerning FALC project extension

31 August 2012

Visiting German Chancellor Angela Merkel and Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao today presided over a grand gathering of some 1,000 people in Tianjin to celebrate the completion of the 100th A320 Family aircraft assembled at the Airbus A320 Family Final Assembly Line China (FALC), which is a joint venture between Airbus and its Chinese partners. Among the participants attending the celebration were government officials from China and Europe, representatives of Airbus and its Chinese partners and customers as well as employees of the Airbus Tianjin Final Assembly Line and Airbus Tianjin Delivery Centre, a subsidiary of Airbus in Tianjin.

One day before the celebration, a framework agreement was signed by Airbus, Tianjin Free Trade Zone (TJFTZ) and the Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC), the two parties of the Chinese consortium that hold a 49% stake in the FALC joint venture, concerning the shared intention to continue the cooperation on the project beyond the current business plan, which is due to expire in 2016. The agreement was signed at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing as a part of a series of Europe-China agreements in the presence of the German Chancellor and Chinese Premier.

“The completion of the 100th A320 Family aircraft by the Airbus Tianjin final assembly line represents a significant milestone for the cooperation between Airbus and China, as well as the Airbus strategy of internationalisation, one of the pillars of the Airbus vision for our future,” said Fabrice Brégier, Airbus President and CEO. “Having a final assembly line in Tianjin has greatly promoted the Airbus brand and image in China and brought us closer to our customers in one of the world’s most important aircraft markets. I would like to congratulate all those involved in making FALC a great success and contributing to a win-win situation for Airbus and the Chinese industry,” he added.

The FALC is the third A320 Family final assembly line in the world after the ones in Toulouse, France and Hamburg, Germany and the first Airbus aircraft final assembly line outside Europe. In July this year, Airbus has announced its decision to establish an A320 Family final assembly line in the United States.

In December 2005, Airbus and the Chinese government signed a MoU for the establishment of a single aisle final assembly line in China. In May 2007, the construction of the Tianjin assembly line started. In August 2008, the Tianjin final assembly line started operation. In June 2009, the first aircraft assembled in Tianjin was delivered to Sichuan Airlines. Since then a total of nearly 100 aircraft have already been delivered to 11 Chinese operators from Tianjin. Since the agreement for the FALC project was signed, China has placed orders for more than 550 A320 Family aircraft. In the mean time, the in-service fleet of Airbus A320 Family aircraft have expanded from some 200 to more than 700 as of end of July 2012

Airbus is the leading aircraft manufacturer with the most modern and comprehensive family of airliners on the market, ranging in capacity from 100 to more than 500 seats. Over 11,700 Airbus aircraft have been sold to more than 470 customers and operators worldwide and more than 7,300 of these have been delivered since the company first entered the market in the early seventies. Airbus is an EADS company.

Airbus Updates No.785

MNG Airlines takes delivery of its first A330-200F

Newest operator of world’s most efficient mid-size freighter

30 August 2012

MNG Airlines, Turkey’s dedicated freight operator, has taken delivery of its first of four A330-200Fs on order. Today the airline already operates a fleet of seven A300 cargo aircraft, and will expand its services by moving up to the A330 Freighter.

Sedat Özkazanç, Managing Director of MNG Airlines said: “Holding a big portion of the cargo capacity in Turkey, MNG Airlines is delighted to introduce the A330-200F into our fleet.” He adds: “This new Airbus freighter aircraft will help our continued growth by providing superior fuel efficiency, capacity and range for our customers together with both charter and scheduled flights.”

“We are pleased to welcome MNG Airlines as the newest operator of the A330-200F,” said John Leahy, Chief Operating Officer, Customers, Airbus. “This aircraft offers the lowest operating costs in the mid-size category and the ability to match capacity more closely to demand on a wide range of operations.”

Benefiting from the technical superiority and market success of the A330 passenger version, the A330-200F is the world’s most modern mid-size freighter which can carry 70 tonnes of payload, with a range capability of up to 4,000nm. Moreover, in the current market situation with fluctuating demand and dominated by old and less fuel efficient large aircraft, the mid-size freighter A330-200F is the clear way to secure sustained profitability.

The A330-200F’s range and payload capability provides flexibility for both regional and intercontinental operations, versatility to match costs and frequencies with market expectations, thereby allowing operators to grow existing business and expand into new routes. The A330-200F targets the ‘mid-size’ freighter segment which is forecasted to be the core of future freighter demand, and will require more than 1,320 aircraft in the next 20 years.

To date, Airbus has won more than 1,200 orders for the various versions of the A330, with nearly 900 aircraft currently flying with over 120 customers and operators worldwide.

Airbus Updates No.784

China’s ICBC Leasing places order for 50 Airbus A320 Family aircraft

Emerging lessor enhances portfolio with eco-efficient Airbus aircraft

30 August 2012

ICBC Financial Leasing Co. Ltd. (ICBC Leasing), has signed an agreement with Airbus for a total of 50 A320 Family aircraft, including 30 A320ceo and 20 A320neo.

The aircraft purchase agreement was signed at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing by Li Xiaopeng, Senior Executive Vice President of ICBC and Chairman of ICBC Leasing, and Fabrice Bregier, President and CEO of Airbus. It was a part of a series of Europe-China agreements signed in the presence of visiting German Chancellor Angela Merkel and Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao.

“We decided to order more Airbus A320 Family aircraft, not only A320ceo but also A320neo, to enhance our portfolio in anticipation of increasing demand of the aviation markets in China, Asia Pacific region and the world as well. The order indicates that leasing companies are playing a more important role in the aviation sector,” said Li Xiaopeng, Senior Executive Vice President of ICBC and Chairman of ICBC Leasing.

“We are delighted to see ICBC Leasing placing another order for the world’s best selling single-aisle aircraft. In particular, the order for 20 A320neo makes ICBC Leasing the first Chinese customer for the fastest selling aircraft, which offers a 15 per cent fuel burn reduction. We are proud to support the growth of Chinese leasing companies with our eco-efficient aircraft,” added Fabrice Bregier, Airbus President and CEO.

By the end of July 2012, there were over 700 A320 Family aircraft in operation with 15 Chinese airlines.

As of today, more than 8,500 Airbus A320 Family aircraft have been sold and more than 5,100 delivered to over 365 customers and operators worldwide, making it the world’s best selling commercial jetliner ever. With proven reliability and extended servicing periods, the A320 Family has the lowest operating costs of any single-aisle aircraft. The A320neo is a new engine option for the A320 Family entering into service from 2015 and incorporates latest generation engines and large "Sharklet" wing tip devices, which together will deliver 15 percent in fuel savings. The A320neo has over 95 percent airframe commonality making it an easy fit into existing fleets while offering up to 500 nautical miles (950 kilometres) more range or two tonnes more payload at a given range.

Airbus Updates No.783

Philippine Airlines places major order for Airbus aircraft

Airline selects A321 and A330 under fleet renewal programme

28 August 2012

Philippine Airlines (PAL) has placed a firm order with Airbus covering 34 A321ceo, 10 A321neo and 10 A330-300s. The aircraft are being purchased under a major fleet modernisation programme at the airline, with deliveries starting in 2013.

The single aisle A321 aircraft are being purchased to enhance the airline’s product offerings on domestic and regional routes, as well as to support alliances with its partner airlines. The widebody A330s will be operated on higher demand regional routes and longer range services to the Middle East and Australia. PAL will announce engine selections for all the aircraft at a later date.

“The orders we are placing with Airbus will play a key role in revitalising PAL and growing trade and tourism in the country, said PAL Chairman Lucio Tan and PAL President Ramon S. Ang. “With these aircraft we will be able to offer more passengers the best the industry has to offer across our Asia-Pacific network. At the same time, we will benefit from the low operating costs associated with new generation aircraft and the reduced impact on the environment.”

“We are extremely pleased that Philippine Airlines has placed its confidence in our aircraft to meet its future requirements,” said John Leahy, Chief Operating Officer, Customers, Airbus. “This announcement demonstrates once again the popularity of both the A320 Family and the A330, which remain the leaders in their size categories in terms of operating economics, reliability and passenger comfort.”

The A321 is the largest member of the best-selling A320 Family, which offers the lowest operating costs of any single aisle product line today. These costs will be reduced even further with the arrival of the new engine option (NEO), offering additional fuel savings of 15 per cent. To date, over 8,500 A320 Family aircraft have been ordered and more than 5,200 delivered to 365 customers and operators worldwide.

The A330 is one of the most widely-used widebody aircraft in service today. Airbus has recorded over 1,200 orders for the various versions of the aircraft, with some 900 now flying with 90 operators worldwide. In addition to passenger and freighter aircraft, the A330 is also available in VIP and military transport / tanker variants.