Sunday 30 June 2013

Airbus Updates No.1062

Airbus Updates No.1061

Airbus A300  B4-203F  220     EI-SAF  Air Contractors  DHL cs, ferried 29jun13 LEJ-LDE for storage  ex OO-DIC
 Airbus A319  -113  647     5N-FND  FirstNation Airways  delivery 29jun13 DUB-KAN (+ 660 5N-FNE)  ex EI-DVD
Airbus A319  -111  2214     CC-AIY   Sky Airline  delivery 28-29jun13 DUB-LPA-REC-SCL  ex VQ-BMO
Airbus A319  -132  3358     D-AGWI  germanwings  ferried 28jun13 OSR-CGN, paint into new cs, last one   ex D-AVYZ
 Airbus A320  -214  2776     VP-CXM  Nas Air  delivery 30jun13 MAD-JED  ex EC-JSB
Airbus A320  -214  5652     JA20MC  Star Flyer  delivery 28jun13 TLS-DXB  ex F-WWBO
 Airbus A320  -216  5657     JA05AJ  Air Asia Japan  delivery 29jun13 TLS-TSE  x F-WWBR
Airbus A330  -202  211     CS-TQP  HiFly  ferried 29jun13 BZZ-ARN on wet-lease to Norwegian   ex N272LF
Airbus A330  -243  1008     CS-TFZ  HiFly  ferried 29jun13 ARN-CDG after wet-lease to Norwegian   ex F-WWYD
 Airbus A330  -243(MRTT)  1334     G-VYGF/ZZ335   Air Tanker / Royal Air Force   delivery 28jun13 LEGT-BZZ, MRTT-reg  ex MRTT021
 Airbus A330  -202  1424     5A-LAS  Libyan Airlines  delivery 28jun13 TLS-TIP  ex F-WWTP

Friday 28 June 2013

Airbus Updates No.1060

Airbus updates No.1059

Sichuan Airlines takes delivery of its first A320 with Sharklets

Customer flies higher with eco-efficient Airbus aircraft
28 JUNE 2013 PRESS RELEASE
Sichuan Airlines, the largest all Airbus fleet operator in China, has taken delivery of its first A320 aircraft equipped with Sharklets, joining the rapidly increasing group of Airbus single-aisle aircraft operators benefiting from the latest fuel saving aerodynamic devices.
The A320, powered by IAE V2500 engines, features a comfortable two class cabin, seating 164 passengers with eight in business class and 156 in economy.
“As the first airline to introduce Airbus fly-by-wire aircraft in China, Sichuan Airlines has benefited from the low cost and highly reliable Airbus aircraft. Thanks to the commonality of Airbus aircraft, we were able to seamlessly introduce the wide body A330 Family aircraft into our fleet. With the introduction of this A320 with Sharklets, we will be able to further optimise our route network and bring a high level of comfort to our passengers as well as further reducing our operational cost”, said Li Haiying, General Manager of Sichuan Airlines Co., Ltd.
“We are proud to be part of Sichuan Airlines’ success story. They were first Chinese airline to operate the A320, the first to take delivery of an A320 assembled at Airbus’ Tianjin Final Assembly Line, and now one of the first with Sharklets in China,” said John Leahy, Airbus Chief Operating Officer, Customers. “The Sharklets will deliver up to four per cent reduction in fuel burn and make the airline even more competitive across China and Asia”, said John Leahy, Airbus Chief Operating Officer, Customers.
Sichuan Airlines is China’s largest all Airbus fleet operator. It introduced an A320 in 1995 to become the first Chinese airline to operate an Airbus fly-by-wire aircraft. In 2009, the airline received the first A320 assembled at the Airbus Final Assembly Line China (FALC) in Tianjin. Now it operates a fleet of five A330s and 70 A320 Family aircraft.
Sharklets are made from light-weight composites and are 2.4 meters tall. They are an option on new-build A320 Family aircraft and standard on all members of the new A320neo family. They offer operators up to four per cent fuel burn reduction on longer range sectors and provide the flexibility of either adding an additional 100 nautical miles range or increased payload capability of up to 450 kilograms.
The A320 Family is the world’s best-selling and most modern single aisle aircraft Family. To date, nearly 9,500 aircraft have been ordered and nearly 5,600 delivered to more than 380 customers and operators worldwide. With proven reliability and extended servicing periods, the A320 Family has the lowest operating costs of any single-aisle aircraft.

Airbus Updates No.1058

Libyan Airlines takes delivery of its first Airbus A330

Newest operator of world’s most efficient mid-size aircraft
28 JUNE 2013 PRESS RELEASE
Libyan Airlines, the national carrier of Libya, has taken delivery of its first A330-200 becoming a new operator for the type. The carrier already operates seven A320 aircraft, with three A330-200 and four A350-800 aircraft on order.
Accommodating a two-class configuration of 24 business and 235 economy seats, the aircraft is  powered by GE CF6-80 engines and will be deployed in the Middle East, around Dubai and Jeddah, as well as on Asian and European trunk routes.
“We are pleased to welcome Libyan Airlines as a new operator of the A330 family aircraft. Libya has great potential and its fleet is comprised of predominantly Airbus aircraft,” said John Leahy, Airbus Chief Operating Officer, Customers. “With the A330-200, Libyan Airlines will benefit from the aircraft’s low operating costs, proven reliability and great passenger appeal.”
The A330 Family, which spans 250 to 300 seats, and includes Freighter, VIP, and Military Transport/Tanker variants, has now attracted more than 1,200 orders, with around 900 aircraft flying with more than 100 operators worldwide. Ever since the original version of the A330-200 entered service, the hallmark has been its very efficient operating economics. Thanks to the introduction of numerous product improvements, it still remains the most cost-efficient and capable aircraft in its class operating today, and the family achieves average dispatch reliability above 99 percent.

Airbus Updates No.1057

SAS selects eight A350 XWBs and four A330s

Airbus fleet will bring the airline into a new long haul future
25 JUNE 2013 PRESS RELEASE
Scandinavian carrier SAS has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for eight A350 XWBs and four A330s, as part of its strategy to modernize its fleet with more fuel-efficient aircraft. The agreement was signed in the Nowegian capital, Oslo. The new A350-900s and A330-300s will join the airline’s existing fleet of 30 Airbus aircraft. Engine selection for the A330s will be announced by the airline at a later date.
Currently, SAS operates a fleet of 19 A320 Family aircraft, four A330s and seven A340s. The new wide-body aircraft will fit seamlessly into the airline’s fleet and deliver operational efficiencies and cost savings due to the commonality across the fleet, a feature unique to Airbus.
“The great technological improvements of this extensive fleet renewal plan give SAS a long haul fleet that will be top of class in the industry. It will truly increase our competitiveness and strengthen our customer offering – both with regard to comfort, service and efficiency. We look forward to welcoming our passengers on board these fuel efficient aircraft with extremely comfortable and quiet cabins,” said Rickard Gustafson, SAS Group President & CEO.
“We are delighted that SAS has underscored their confidence in Airbus by selecting our A330, which offers unbeatable economics and the highest level of operational reliability alongside the A350 XWB, the world’s most technologically advanced and efficient aircraft,” said John Leahy, Airbus Chief Operating Officer, Customers.’’   
The A350 XWB (Xtra Wide-Body) is an all-new, mid-size long-range aircraft product line comprising three versions and seating between 270 and 350 passengers in typical three-class layouts. The A350 XWB Family will bring a step change in efficiency compared with existing aircraft in its size category, using 25 per cent less fuel and providing an equivalent reduction in CO2 emissions.
The A330 Family, which spans 250 to 300 seats, and includes Freighter, VIP, and Military Transport/Tanker variants, has now attracted more than 1,200 orders, with around 900 aircraft flying with more than 100 operators worldwide. Ever since the original version of the A330-300 entered service, the hallmark has been its very efficient operating economics. Thanks to the introduction of numerous product improvements, it still remains the most cost-efficient and capable aircraft in its class operating today, and the family achieves average dispatch reliability above 99 percent.

Airbus Updates No.1056

 Airbus A319  -113  647     5N-FND  FirstNation Airways  delivery 27jun13 DUB-KAN (+ 660 5N-FNE 28jun13)  ex EI-DVD
 Airbus A319  -112  1018     YA-TTE  Safi Airways  at SNN 25jun13 after paint, EI-reg prior delivery  ex EI-FBO
 Airbus A319-100 [EI-FBO / YA-TTE]
 Airbus A319  -112  1136     D-AKNN  germanwings  ferried 26jun13 OSR-CGN after paint into new cs  ex N726US
 Airbus A319  -111  2516     4K-AZ03  Azerbaijan Airlines Avia  ferried 26jun13 BAK-OSR for paint into new cs  ex D-AVWS
 Airbus A320  -231  357    N567BB  Csds Aircraft Sales & Leasing   ferried 26-27jun13 GYR-YYR-KEF-ARN-SAW on delivery to?   ex XA-UCZ
 Airbus A320  -214  3107     VP-BTZ  Ural Airlines  delivery 26-27jun13 MNL-KHV-SVX  ex RP-C8605
 Airbus A320  -232  5641     VT-IFO  IndiGo Airlines  delivery 26-27jun13 TLS-FJR-DEL  ex F-WWIN
 Airbus A320  -232  5646     B-9935  Sichuan Airlines  delivery 26-27jun13 TLS-SVX-CTU  ex F-WWIM
 Airbus A320  -232  5649     JA13JJ  Jetstar Japan  delivery 27jun13 TLS-AUH-SIN  ex F-WWIL
 Airbus A320  -232  5660     HA-LWV  Wizz Air  delivery 27jun13 TLS-BUD  ex F-WWBS
 Airbus A320  -214  5673     EC-LVX  Vueling  delivery 27jun13 XFW-BCN  ex D-AVVB
Airbus A321  -231  5670     B-9936  Sichuan Airlines  delivery 27-28jun13 XFW-OVB-CTU   ex D-AVZY
 Airbus A330  -223  874     D-ALAA  Lufthansa Technik  ferried 26jun13 ZRH-MLA, Kingfisher cs  ex VT-VJK
 Airbus A330  -202(MRTT)  980     2401  Royal Saudi Air Force  delivery 25jun13 LEGT-OEPS  ex EC-338
 Airbus A330  -202  1424     5A-LAS  Libyan Airlines  delivery 28jun13 TLS-TIP  ex F-WWTP
 Airbus A330  -302  1426     EC-LXK  Iberia  delivery 27jun13 TLS-AMS for paint  ex F-WWCG

Tuesday 25 June 2013

Airbus Updates No.1055

Airbus A321  -231  5667     TC-JSL  Turkish Airlines  delivery 24jun13 XFW-IST  ex D-aVZX
 Airbus A330  -243  345     TS-IRA  Syphax Airlines  delivery 20/21jun13 BOD-LBG-TUN  ex F-WJKG
 Airbus A330  -243  1008     CS-TFZ  HiFly  ferried 20jun13 BRU-ARN on wet-lease to Norwegian Long Haul as 2nd 787 substitute  ex F-WWYD
 Airbus A330  -343  1322     B-LNL  Hong Kong Airlines  ferried 20/21jun13 SZX-HKG-SZX during lease** to Hainan Airlines   ex F-WWTI
 Airbus A330  -243  1422     N393HA  Hawaiian Airlines  delivery 20/21jun13 TLS-LBG-LAX  ex F-WWTX
 Airbus A330  -343  1425     B-5922  China Southern  delivery 21jun13 TLS-TSN  ex F-WWKM
 Airbus A330  -343  1427     9V-STV  Singapore Airlines  delivery 21jun13 TLS-SIN  ex F-WWCH
 Airbus A340  -213  151     5A-ONE  Afriqiyah Airways  ferried 21jun13 PGF-ORY for addnl mx  ex HZ-WBT4
 Airbus A340  -313  318     RP-C3436  Philippine Airlines  delivery 21jun13 LDE-MNL   ex EC-HGU

Airbus Updates No.1054

Airbus A319  -132  3534     D-AGWL  germanwings  ferried 20jun13 OSR-CGN after paint into new cs  ex D-AVWB
 Airbus A320  -212  409     N409AG  ACG Acquisitions  ferried 24jun13 WOE-SEN after paint, all white  ex 5N-FNA
 Airbus A320  -231  415     LY-SPC  Small Planet Airlines  at PGF 21jun13, all white, prior delivery  ex EI-ETM
 Airbus A320  -212  438     F-WTDD  AeroTurbine  ferried 24jun13 MPL-TIP, all white, on delivery to Ghadames Air Transport   ex 9Q-CSB
 Airbus A320  -232  2602     PR-MAX  TAM  ferried 20-21jun13 GRU-MAO-MEX, all wh, for Bangkok Airways   ex F-WWBO
 Airbus A320  -232  3159     VT-INJ  IndiGo Airlines  ferried 20jun13 AMM-SNN, for SAS as OY-KAR  ex F-WWDQ
 Airbus A320  -214  3868     VP-CXO  Nas Air  delivery 23jun13 WOE-JED  ex OE-IBV
 Airbus A320  -214  4600     B-9963  Tianjin Airlines  delivery 22jun13 XSP-DMK-TSN, special East Asia Games 2013 cs   ex OE-ICD
 Airbus A320  -214  5562     B-9940  Spring Airlines  delivery 19jun13 TSN-PVG  ex B-517L
 Airbus A320  -232  5629     ZK-OXA  Air New Zealand  delivery 15/18-21jun13 TLS-LBG-MCT-SIN-CNS-AKL   ex F-WWBH
 Airbus A320  -214  5658     D-AIZV  Lufthansa  delivery 21jun13 XFW-FRA  ex D-AUBY
 Airbus A320  -214  5661     N220FR  Frontier  delivery 22jun13 XFW-TLS  ex D-AUBZ
 Airbus A320  -214  5665     XA-JMA  InterJet  delivery 22-23jun13 XFW-KEF-BGR-TLC   ex D-AVVA
 Airbus A321  -232  5647    B-9937  Sichuan Airlines  delivery 19jun13 XFW-OVB  ex D-AVZT
 Airbus A321  -231  5655     B-6979  China Southern  delivery 22jun13 XFW-OVB  ex D-AVZU
 Airbus A321  -211  5659     N155UW  US Airways  delivery 21jun13 XFW-BGR-PIT  ex D-AVZV

Thursday 20 June 2013

Airbus Updates No.1052

Airbus books almost US$70 billion at Paris Air Show 2013

466 Airbus aircraft orders & commitments across all product families;
A320neo Family retains 60 percent market share;
A350 XWB, A330 and A380 all continue to outsell the competition.
20 JUNE 2013 PRESS RELEASE
At the 2013 Paris Air Show, Airbus won US$68.7 billion worth of business for a total of 466 aircraft, which shows the resilience of the commercial aviation industry. The deals comprise Memoranda of Understanding (MoU) for 225 aircraft worth US$29.4 billion and firm purchase orders for 241 aircraft worth US$39.3 billion.
The A320 Family, spearheaded by the A320neo, continues its trailblazing success in the single-aisle market with 371 orders and commitments from six customers announced at the show, worth approximately $37.8 billion. Of these, 88 were for the A320ceo – showing that today’s in-production aircraft is still the most sought-after industry workhorse. A stand-out commitment during the show for the A320 Family was the announcement from easyJet for 100 A320neos plus 35 A320ceos – the winning result of a very intense competition. Another major endorsement for the A320 Family came from Lufthansa with the firming-up of 100 more aircraft. Additional A320 Family orders and commitments came from: Hong Kong Aviation Capital for 60; ILFC for 50; Spirit for 20; and Tunisia’s Syphax Airlines for three – significantly the first A320neo commitment from Africa.
Another star at Paris was the A350 XWB which flew for the first time on Friday 14th June 2013 and successfully completed its second flight on Wednesday 19th June. At the show this aircraft gained 69 more orders & commitments worth $21.4 billion from four customers on different continents. Air France-KLM placed a firm order for 25 A350-900s. Meanwhile, Singapore Airlines, already a large customer for the type, returned to order 30 more A350-900s; United Airlines also placed an additional A350 order for 10 A350-1000s -- not only bringing its total A350 orders to 35, but also upgrading its previous order for 25 A350-900s to the larger A350-1000 model to replace its Boeing 777s. In addition, Sri Lankan signed a commitment for four A350-900s to complement an order for six A330-300s at the show.
At the top end of the product range, the flagship A380 received a commitment for 20 aircraft from the world’s third largest wide-body lessor, Doric Lease Corp, in a deal worth more than $8 billion. The contract with Doric is significant as it opens up a new, additional route to market for the A380, which is now available to airlines who wish to acquire the aircraft under the flexibility of an operating lease agreement. 
John Leahy, Airbus’s Chief Operating Officer, Customers said: “The dramatic rainfall and thunder storms at Le Bourget this year didn’t dampen our order intake.” He added: “Our A350 XWB has been out-selling the 787 by better than 2- to-1 over the last five years. In addition our A320neo Family retains a 60 percent market share lead. That’s a ‘corner’ I want to stay boxed into.”

Airbus Updates No.1051

Spirit Airlines to grow fleet with largest Airbus single-aisle model

U.S. low-cost carrier signs firm order for 20 A321ceo aircraft
1st North American carrier to feature Space-Flex cabin option, room for more seats
20 JUNE 2013 PRESS RELEASE
Spirit Airlines has placed a firm order for 20 Airbus A321 aircraft and additionally has opted to convert 10 of its existing A320 orders to the larger A321. All of these aircraft are current engine option (ceo) models. Spirit’s A321ceos will accommodate increasing passenger numbers in the airline’s network in the U.S., Caribbean and Latin America. All of the A321ceo aircraft will be fitted with fuel-saving Sharklets and will seat 219 passengers in a single-class layout.
The announcement was made today during the Paris Air Show.
“Spirit’s priority has always been to save its passengers money, while transporting them as comfortably as possible,” said John Leahy, Airbus Chief Operating Officer, Customers. “That is exactly what the A320 Family allows the airline to achieve. These are eco-efficient machines with wonderful comfort.”
“We are pleased to expand our partnership with Airbus and excited about the growth opportunities and additional cities we will be able to liberate from high fares with the addition of these aircraft,” said Ben Baldanza, Chief Executive Officer of Spirit Airlines.
The new Spirit A321s will also be the first North America-based aircraft to feature the Space-Flex cabin option. This rear lavatory and galley combination optimizes use of the available space at the very back of the aircraft. The configuration also allows for the first lavatory in the single-aisle market to be accessible to people with reduced mobility.
With this order announced today, Spirit’s firm orders total: 7 A319s, 98 A320s (including 45 A320 new engine option aircraft) and 30 A321s. The airline currently operates a fleet of some 50 A320 Family aircraft.
The A320 Family is the world’s most successful aircraft with over 9,500 ordered and over 5,600 delivered to more than 380 customers and operators.

Airbus Updates No.1050

Airbus, United Airlines reach agreement for 35 A350-1000 aircraft

Airline orders 10 more A350s, converts order for 25 A350-900s to -1000 model
20 JUNE 2013 PRESS RELEASE
United Airlines and Airbus have announced that the airline will add 35 Airbus A350-1000 aircraft to its future fleet.  The agreement between the companies represents a conversion of the U.S. carrier’s previous order for 25 A350-900s to the -1000 model, as well as the addition of 10 more orders for A350-1000 aircraft. The announcement was made today during the Paris Air Show. 
The A350-1000 is the largest version of the A350 XWB (Xtra Wide-Body) family and typically seats 350 passengers in a three-class layout. The aircraft is capable of flying 8,400 nautical miles non-stop and will be operated by United on higher density routes, including non-stop flights between the United States and the Asia/Pacific region. The aircraft will be powered by two Rolls-Royce Trent XWB engines delivering 97,000lbs of thrust – the most powerful engines ever developed for an Airbus aircraft. 
“We look forward to taking delivery of the A350-1000,” said Jeff Smisek, United’s Chairman, President and CEO. “This is a modern, fuel-efficient and advanced-technology aircraft that our customers and co-workers will enjoy flying.  It will be a great addition to our fleet and will allow us to meet demand on larger, long-haul markets in our world-leading network.”
“The latest announcement from United Airlines is yet another endorsement for the
A350-1000,” said Fabrice Bregier, Airbus President and Chief Executive Officer. “Less than a week after the success of the A350 XWB’s first flight, we see that demand for the new aircraft continues to grow, especially for the larger -1000 model. Airbus is proud to have United Airlines on board the exciting A350 program in such a significant way. 
The A350 XWB is an all-new mid-size long range product line featuring three versions and seating between 270 and 350 passengers in typical three-class layouts. The aircraft will bring new levels of efficiency to the mid-size market, using 25 per cent less fuel than existing aircraft in this size category and providing an equivalent reduction in CO2 emissions.
The first A350 XWB began an extensive flight test program last Friday, June 14th. Entry into commercial service of the first customer aircraft is scheduled for the second half of 2014.
To date, Airbus has recorded 678 firm orders for the A350 XWB from 34 customers worldwide.

Airbus Updates No.1049

Hong Kong Aviation Capital signs for 60 A320neo Family aircraft

Aircraft financier confident in market demand for efficient NEO
20 JUNE 2013 PRESS RELEASE
Hong Kong Aviation Capital (HKAC), a fast growing aircraft leasing company based in Hong Kong, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Airbus for the purchase of 40  A320neo and 20 A321neo aircraft. The agreement was signed at the Paris Air Show by Donal Boylan, CEO of HKAC and John Leahy, Airbus Chief Operating Officer, Customers. 
 “All of our business over the last two years has been sale and lease backs of Airbus A320 and A330 aircraft. We are proud to now extend this relationship directly with Airbus, and in particular to participate in the already proven success of the A320 NEO order book. This is our first direct order with any aircraft manufacturer and our first commitment for the A320 NEO” said Donal Boylan, CEO of HKAC.  
“We are delighted to have HKAC as our new customer for the NEO, the world’s best selling single-aisle aircraft. This demonstrates the continuing confidence of the market in Airbus’ modern, fuel efficient aircraft which brings benefits to our customers in terms of profitability,” said John Leahy, Airbus Chief Operating Officer, Customers. “We hope to grow our long term partnership with HKAC in the future.”
HKAC is a Hong Kong based lessor which currently has a portfolio of over 50 Airbus aircraft. It has provided financing leasing services to several airlines in Asia and worldwide. It’s the first time for HKAC to directly place orders with any aircraft manufacturer. 
The A320neo incorporates new more fuel efficient engines and large "Sharklet" wing tip devices, which together deliver up to 15 percent in fuel savings. 

Airbus Updates No.1048

Singapore Airlines finalises order for up to 50 more A350 XWBs

Firm order for 30 A350-900s and 20 options convertible to A350-1000
19 JUNE 2013 PRESS RELEASE
Singapore Airlines (SIA) has increased its orders for the A350 XWB with an additional 30 A350-900s, plus options for a further 20 aircraft. The agreement firms up a commitment announced last month. Under the terms of the agreement, Singapore Airlines will be able to select either the baseline A350-900 or the larger A350-1000 when exercising the options.
This is the third order from Singapore Airlines for the A350 XWB. The deal sees the carrier’s total firm orders for the all-new aircraft increase to 70, plus 20 options. Singapore Airlines will operate the A350 XWB on long haul and regional services. 
"We are pleased to announce this latest order from Singapore Airlines as the A350 XWB flight test campaign begins,” said John Leahy, Chief Operating Officer, Customers, Airbus. "It’s another clear endorsement of our all-new design A350 XWB, bringing a step change in efficiency and comfort to the mid-size widebody market with a single product family.”
The A350 XWB (Xtra Wide-Body) is an all-new mid-size long range product line comprising three versions and seating between 270 and 350 passengers in typical three-class layouts. The aircraft will bring new levels of efficiency to the mid-size market, using 25 per cent less fuel than existing aircraft in this size category and providing an equivalent reduction in CO2 emissions.
The extensive flight test programme for the A350 XWB is now underway, following a successful first flight last week. Entry into commercial service of the first customer aircraft is scheduled for the second half of 2014.

Wednesday 19 June 2013

Airbus Updates No.1047

SriLankan Airlines opts for six A330’s and four A350 XWB’s

Winning combination for efficient long haul fleet
19 JUNE 2013 PRESS RELEASE
SriLankan Airlines, the national carrier of Sri Lanka, has signed an MoU (memorandum of understanding) for six A330-300s and four A350-900s. The airline, an all Airbus operator, has chosen the highly reliable A330 and the latest generation A350 XWB aircraft as part of its long-haul fleet renewal.
“The efficiency, reliability and passenger appeal of our in-service A330s form the pillar of SriLankan’s long haul operations,” said Kapila Chandrasena, CEO of SriLankan Airlines. “Adding more new A330’s to our fleet, combined with the unbeatable economics  the A350 XWB will offer, allows us to achieve a strong economical performance.”
“We are grateful  of this renewed confidence SriLankan Airlines is placing with us,” said John Leahy, Airbus Chief Operating Officer, Customers “The winning combination of A330’s and A350 XWB’s will allow SriLankan Airlines to offer the highest levels of comfort to their passengers while also benefitting from superior efficiency levels at any time.”
Airbus aircraft share a unique cockpit and operational commonality, allowing airlines to use the same pool of pilots, cabin crews and maintenance engineers, bringing operational flexibility and resulting in significant cost savings.  
The twin engine A330 is one of the most widely used widebody aircraft in service today. Airbus has recorded more than 1,200 orders for the various versions of the aircraft and nearly 1,000 aircraft are flying with nearly 100 operators worldwide. The A330-300 has benefited from numerous product improvements and stands as the most cost-efficient and capable aircraft in its class, achieving average dispatch reliability above 99 percent.
The A350 XWB is the all-new mid-size long range product line comprising three versions and seating between 270 and 350 passengers in spacious three-class layouts. The new family will bring a step change in efficiency using 25 per cent less fuel and providing an equivalent reduction in CO2 emissions. To date the A350 XWB has already won 613 firm orders from 33 customers worldwide.

Airbus Updates No.1046

Air France-KLM confirms future with A350 XWB

World class Group signs for 25 aircraft firm plus 25 options
19 JUNE 2013 PRESS RELEASE
The Air France-KLM Group has finalized a firm contract for 25 A350-900 aircraft and for a further 25 options. These aircraft will become an essential element in the Group’s future fleet strategy.
"This order of new-generation, high performance aircraft reflects the importance of our investments for the benefit of our customers, whose comfort is at the heart of our concerns. With the A350, Air France-KLM will continue to operate one of the most modern fleets in the world, and ensure the growth of its long-haul activity, while achieving significant cost savings." said Alexandre de Juniac, Chairman and CEO of the Air France-KLM Group as of first of July 2013.
Peter Hartman, President and Chief Executive Officer of KLM, said: “Our order for this new aircraft type opens a new chapter for the Group. This aircraft introduces major environmental advances and will contribute to our ambitious targets for noise and carbon reduction.“
"We are honoured that our all new, extra efficient A350-900, which has just recently flown on its maiden flight, will become an essential cornerstone in the future fleet development of Air France-KLM,” said Fabrice Brégier, Airbus President and Chief Executive Officer. "The A350 XWB's unbeatable economics and environmental credentials will pay nice dividends into the future positioning of the airline, while the aircraft’s commonality with the groups existing Airbus fleet will generate further efficiencies and savings.”
The Air France-KLM Group currently operates a fleet of just over 190 Airbus aircraft, comprising eight A380s, 31 A330s, 13 A340s, 25 A321s, 54 A320s, 41 A319s and 18 A318s. With this new order Air France-KLM joins an exclusive group of airlines who are customers for every member of the Airbus product family.
The A350 XWB is the all-new mid-size long range product line comprising three versions and seating between 270 and 350 passengers in spacious three-class layouts. The new family will bring a step change in efficiency using 25 per cent less fuel and providing an equivalent reduction in CO2 emissions. By the end of May, the A350 XWB has already won 613 firm orders from 33 customers worldwide.

Airbus Updates No.1045

Tunisia’s Syphax Airlines orders the A320neo and the A320ceo

First NEO breakthrough in Africa
18 JUNE 2013 PRESS RELEASE
Syphax Airlines, a new Tunisian based airline, has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to buy three A320neo. The order is the first time an African based carrier has ordered the NEO and marks a significant breakthrough for Airbus in one of the world’s fastest developing markets.  Syphax have also ordered three A320ceo aircraft. The aircraft will be powered by CFM engines.
“Syphax Airlines is focused on continuing to grow its Tunisian, North Africa and Europe routes, and an expansion of its network to Asia and North America, through its hubs in Tunis and Sfax while offering passengers a luxurious service,” said Syphax Chairman and Director General, Mohamed Frikha. “Adding the A320neo to our fleet means we can achieve all of these goals while benefitting from a 15 percent fuel saving and cost effectiveness.”
“We thank Syphax Airlines for their confidence in Airbus and for being the first African carrier to place an order for our NEO aircraft,” said John Leahy, Chief Operating Officer, Customers. “We’re looking forward to seeing Syphax’s A320neo aircraft operating seamlessly alongside their current A320 fleet, delivering to them savings through reduced maintenance and pilot training costs as a result of the high degree of commonality between the aircraft models.”
The airline already operates 2 A319 and 3 A320 aircraft and will shortly commence operating a leased A330-200.
The A320neo is offered as an option for the A320 Family and incorporates new more efficient engines and large "Sharklet" wing tip devices, which together will deliver up to 15 percent in fuel savings. At the end of May 2013, firm orders for the NEO stood at 2125 from 40 customers, making it the fastest selling commercial airliner ever and underlining its market leadership position with close to 60 per cent market share.

Tuesday 18 June 2013

Airbus Updates No.1044

Airbus A318  -121  3602     PR-ONO  Avianca Brazil  delivery 17jun13 MEX-BOG-NAT   ex CC-CZN
 Airbus A319  -112  734     EI-FCG  ILFC  ferried 12jun13 ZRH-SNN, all wh, seen regd 17jun13   ex HB-IPS
Airbus A320  -211  199     EC-ICQ  Vueling  to be ferried 19jun13 BCN-MAD prior part-out & scrap   ex EC-FGU
 Airbus A320  -214  1255     N219NV  Allegiant Air  delivery 18jun15 DUB-BGR  ex EC-HSF
 Airbus A320  -211  244      YL-LCM  smartLynx Airlines  delivery 17jun13 WOE-MAD-VNO   ex F-GJVF
 Airbus A320  -232  2645     SP-ACK  Bingo Airways  ferried 14/15jun13 TUN-KTW-NBE during** wet-lease to Syphax Airlines   ex EI-EXO
 Airbus A320  -214  2776     VP-C  Nas Air  painted at MAD 06-17jun13 prior delivery  ex EC-JSB
 Airbus A320  -214  4600     B-  Tianjin AIrlines  acc flt 18jun13 XSP-JHB-XSP in special "East Asia Games 2013" cs, OE-reg  ex OE-ICD
 Airbus A320  -232  5629     ZK-OXA  Air New Zealand  delivery 15jun13 TLS-LBG  ex F-WWBH
Airbus A320  -214  5643     PR-TYA  TAM  delivery 17jun13 TLS-LBG  ex F-WWIO
Airbus A320  -233  5651     N521VL  Volaris  delivery 15jun13 XFW-KEF-BGR-TLC   ex D-AUBW
 Airbus A320  -214  5653     XA-IUA  Interjet  delivery 15-16jun13 XFW-KEF-BGR-TLC   ex D-AUBX
 Airbus A321  -211  1451     TC-ATR  AtlasJet  delivery 17jun13 TLS-SAW  ex F-HCAI
Airbus A321  -231  5663      TC-JSK  Turkish Airlines  delivery 18jun13 XFW-IST  ex D-AVZW
 Airbus A330  -243  364     LV-FNL  Aerolineas Argentinas  ferried 14jun13 LDE-LPBJ, EI-reg prior delivery aug13   ex EI-CXG
 Airbus A330  -243  863     UP-A3001  Berkut State Air   ferried 18jun13 MAN-TSE after paint into Comlux cs plus Kazakstan titl  ex 3B-TSL
Airbus A330  -343  1420     RP-C3341  Cebu Pacific Air  delivery 14jun13 TS-MNL  ex F-WWTR
 Airbus A340  -313  193     EC-GPB  Iberia  ferried 18jun13 MAD-CHR for paint into?  ex F-WWJR
 Airbus A380  -861  123     A6-EEI  Emirates  delivery 17jun13 XFW-DXB  ex F-WWAM

Airbus Updates No.1043

LATAM takes delivery of 200th A320 aircraft at Paris Air Show

TAM A320 equipped with Sharklet fuel saving wing-tip devices
18 JUNE 2013 PRESS RELEASE
LATAM Airlines Group, the holding company for LAN and TAM Airlines and third largest Airbus customer in terms of in-service and on order aircraft, has taken delivery of its 200th A320 aircraft at Le Bourget Paris Air Show. The TAM A320 is equipped with Sharklet fuel-saving wing-tip devices and powered by CFM engines.
“We are very happy to receive our 200th Airbus A320 at the 50th Paris Air Show, a truly momentous occasion that reflects the important relationship Airbus, LAN, TAM and now LATAM have shared since 1998,” said Roberto Alvo, LATAM Airlines Group’s Chief Corporate Officer. “The A320 has been a key element to the company’s growth over the years and success in South America.”
“We congratulate LATAM on this important milestone. We are convinced that the market-leading A320 Family will substantially contribute to LATAM’s strategy moving forward,” said John Leahy Airbus Chief Operating Officer, Customers. “We are proud to foster our partnership with LATAM, one of the largest airline groups in the world.”
LATAM received its first Sharklet-equipped aircraft in April 2013. Made from light-weight composites, Sharklets are an option on new-build A320 Family aircraft allowing airlines to reduce fuel burn up to four percent and reduce CO2 emissions by approximately 1,000 tons per aircraft per year.
LATAM has ordered a total of 380 aircraft, has almost 250 aircraft in operation and their joint Airbus backlog is nearly 170, making them the third largest airline customer and third largest operator of Airbus aircraft in the world. The airline group is also the largest A320 operator in Latin America and one of the largest in the world. 
With more than 760 aircraft sold and a backlog that exceeds 360, more than 500 Airbus aircraft are in operation throughout Latin America and the Caribbean. In the last 10 years, Airbus has tripled its in-service fleet, while delivering more than 60 percent of all aircraft operating in the region.

Airbus Updates No.1042

Comlux becomes first to take delivery of an Airbus ACJ321

Cabin is widest, tallest and longest of any business jet
18 JUNE 2013 PRESS RELEASE
Comlux has taken delivery of the first Airbus ACJ321, the newest private jet from the world’s most modern aircraft family, which means that it will become the first to have operated every corporate Airbus A320 Family version. 
The Airbus ACJ321 is now being outfitted with VVIP cabin by Comlux America in Indianapolis, and is due to be completed in 2014. Like the Airbus ACJ318, ACJ319 and ACJ320, the ACJ321 will have the widest and tallest cabin of any business jet and, because of its stretched fuselage, it will also have the longest. Additional centre tanks will also give the ACJ321 extra range.
“Comlux has established a reputation that is synonymous with comfort and luxury, and the Airbus ACJ321 will enable us to offer our customers even more of that in the air,” says Comlux, The Aviation Group President & CEO Richard Gaona. “We have operated the Airbus ACJ318, ACJ319 and ACJ320, so the ACJ321 brings a new dimension to our fleet while also being an easy addition, because of its cockpit and maintenance commonalityThis is an important year for Comlux because we are celebrating our 10th anniversary. We started to operate the ACJ Family in 2006 and to date we have flown more than 15,000 charter hours on our Airbus fleet. This record is a great achievement for a private jet operator and shows the sustainability of Comlux in the large-cabin business aviation market."
Comlux was an early Airbus private jet customer, was the first to operate the Airbus ACJ318, and its fleet now includes five Airbus corporate jets. It operates all of its Airbus fleet to the highest standards, including 180 min extended range twin-engine operations (ETOPS) and Category 3B autoland.
Whether you travel on business or are in the business of travel, you want to take comfort and space into the air and, with the widest, tallest and longest cabins in the sky, you get more of that with Airbus corporate jets,” enthuses Airbus Chief Operating Officer, Customers, John Leahy. “So whether you fly your own Airbus corporate jet or charter one from a leading VVIP operator such as Comlux, you can be sure to get the best cabin in the sky,” he adds.
With a heritage of modern airframes, efficient engines, and robust reliability, as well as apartment-sized cabins, Airbus corporate jets are the new top end of the business jet market. With a similar footprint to that of  traditional large business-jets, Airbus corporate jets also fit existing ramp space.
More than 170 Airbus corporate jets have been sold worldwide, and they are flying on every continent, including Antarctica.

Airbus Updates No.1041

EasyJet sets sights on Airbus A320neo for future fleet development

Selects 100 A320neo and 35 A320ceo
18 JUNE 2013 PRESS RELEASE
After a thorough technical evaluation, easyJet has earmarked the Airbus A320neo for its future fleet requirements.
Based on the company’s growth forecasts, the A320 was selected for offering the best productivity, lowest operating cost and best fuel efficiency of any single aisle aircraft in the 180 seat sector. Currently easyJet operates a fleet largely based on the smaller A319 seating 156 passengers.
Subject to shareholder approval, easyJet has identified a future need for 100 A320neo aircraft. These will be preceded by 35 A320ceo aircraft equipped with Sharklets.  Of the 135 aircraft, 85 will be for replacement.
“The NEO is without doubt the most productive and fuel efficient aircraft around. It has the widest and tallest cabin of any single aisle aircraft for faster turnaround operations and better passenger comfort. We are delighted our reliable aircraft have met easyJet’s demanding criteria,” said John Leahy, Chief Operating Officer-Customers.
This order will sustain nearly 2,500 jobs as well as some 7,500 in the extended supply chain in the UK.
easyJet operates one of Europe’s most extensive route networks, and is the UK’s largest airline carrying 55 million passenger a year. easyJet is also the largest A320 Family customer and operator in Europe.
The A320 Family is the world’s most successful with over 9,500 ordered and over 5,600 delivered to over 380 customers and operators.

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Airbus Updates No.4245

  Airbus A321  -231  2553    N355FL  Spectre Air Capital  ferried 14-15mar24 LETL-TBS-ALA- prior P2F-conversion  ex LY-BLW  Airbus A321  -23...

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