Airbus Updates No.1554

Vietnam Airlines signs MOU for 10 more A350 XWBs

Carrier to operate world’s newest widebody on non-stop services to US

6 SEPTEMBER 2016 PRESS RELEASE

Vietnam Airlines has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Airbus for 10 more A350-900 aircraft. The aircraft will be used by the airline on non-stop flights to the US, beginning with services between Ho Chi Minh City and Los Angeles.

The MOU was signed in Hanoi today by Duong Tri Thanh, President and CEO of Vietnam Airlines, and Fabrice Brégier, Airbus President & CEO. The signing took place during the state visit to Vietnam of François Hollande, President of France, and was witnessed by Mr Hollande and Tran Dai Quang, President of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam.

Vietnam Airlines last year became the first airline in East Asia and the second in the world to operate the A350 XWB. The carrier already has four aircraft in service, with another 10 on firm order for future delivery. The additional 10 aircraft covered by today’s MOU will enable Vietnam Airlines to operate non-stop to the US West Coast, carrying 305 passengers in a three class premium layout.

“The intention to acquire these additional aircraft reflects our excellent experience with the A350 since it entered service with Vietnam Airlines last year,” said Duong Tri Thanh, President and CEO of Vietnam Airlines. “With its very long range capability, economic fuel consumption and spacious cabin, the A350 is the suitable aircraft for our proposed intercontinental routes to Europe and the US. The start of non-stop transpacific services with the A350 is yet another example of the commitment we have at Vietnam Airlines to strengthen our position as one of the world’s leading international carriers.”

“Today’s agreement further consolidates the A350’s position as the new long haul leader in the mid-size widebody category,” said Fabrice Brégier, Airbus President and CEO. “The A350 XWB has quite simply set new standards in its class, combining unbeatable operating economics with the highest levels of passenger comfort. We look forward to working closely with Vietnam Airlines as it continues to develop its long haul network and strengthens its position in the premium market.”

The all-new A350 XWB features the latest aerodynamic design, carbon fibre fuselage and wings, plus fuel-efficient Rolls-Royce Trent XWB engines. Together, these latest technologies translate into unrivalled levels of operational efficiency, with a 25 per cent reduction in fuel burn and emissions, and significantly lower maintenance costs. For passengers, the A350 XWB sets new standard in terms of in-flight comfort, with an extra-wide cabin offering more personal space in all classes, including 18 inch wide seats as standard in economy class.

To date, Airbus has recorded a total of 810 firm orders for the A350 XWB from 43 customers worldwide, already making it one of the most successful widebody aircraft ever. A total of 36 A350 XWBs have been delivered so far and the aircraft is now in service with eight carriers, including Vietnam Airlines.

Airbus Updates No.1497

China Eastern Airlines orders 20 Airbus A350 XWB

Endorsement pushes Airbus’ A350 XWB firm order book above 800

29 APRIL 2016 PRESS RELEASE

China Eastern Airlines has signed a purchase agreement with Airbus for 20 A350-900 aircraft, making the airline the latest customer for the aircraft.

“The introduction of the latest generation A350 XWB aircraft demonstrates that the partnership between China Eastern Airlines and Airbus has embarked on a new phase. The introduction of A350 XWB will play a very important role in promoting our operational capability, profitability and service brand on our international long haul routes and opening a new chapter in the international development of China Eastern Airlines,” said Liu Shaoyong, Chairman of China Eastern Airlines. 

“We are proud to welcome China Eastern Airlines, a long time and loyal Airbus partner, to become the latest airline to select the A350 XWB,” said John Leahy, Airbus Chief Operating Officer – Customers. “The outstanding A350’s long haul performance, fuel efficiency and passenger comfort with its extra wide cabin and wider-seats, will allow China Eastern Airlines to achieve its ambitions to develop and efficiently expand its international route network.” 

China Eastern Airlines operates one of the largest Airbus fleet in the world with nearly 300 Airbus aircraft in service, comprising A320 Family and A330 Family. 

The A350 XWB is the world’s latest generation airliner and the newest member of Airbus’ modern, comfortable & efficient wide-body product family. It features the latest aerodynamic design, carbon fiber fuselage and wings, plus new fuel-efficient Rolls-Royce Trent XWB engines. Together, these latest technologies translate into unrivalled levels of operational efficiency, with a 25 per cent reduction in fuel burn and emissions, and significantly lower maintenance costs. For passengers the extra-wide cabin offers more personal space in all classes, including 18-inch wide seats as standard in economy class.

With this latest order, Airbus has recorded 803 firm orders for the A350 XWB from 43 customers worldwide, making it one of the most successful wide-body aircraft ever. So far 20 A350 XWBs have been delivered to five customers worldwide.

Airbus Updates No.1496

Philippine Airlines finalises order for the A350 XWB

Future flagship of airline’s long haul fleet for services to US and Europe

29 APRIL 2016 PRESS RELEASE

Philippine Airlines (PAL) has finalised a purchase agreement with Airbus covering the firm order of six A350-900s, plus six options. The contract firms up a Memorandum of Understanding announced earlier this year during the Singapore Airshow.

The A350 XWB will become the flagship of PAL’s future long haul fleet and will be configured with a premium three class layout. The airline will operate the aircraft on non-stop flights to the US, as well as on services to new destinations in Europe. 

“We are pleased to finalise this important order and are now defining the final layout for the aircraft,” said Jaime J. Bautista, President & COO of Philippine Airlines. “With the A350 we will introduce a whole new level of comfort for long haul flights, with more personal space in all classes, a quieter cabin and the very latest on-board amenities. At the same time we will benefit from the A350’s enhanced efficiency and ability to fly non-stop on even our longest sector from New York to Manila, all year round.”

“The order from Philippine Airlines underscores A350 XWB’s position as the aircraft of choice in the larger twin aisle category,” said John Leahy, Airbus Chief Operating Officer, Customers. “The A350 XWB has set new standards, combining extra-long range capability with the lowest operating costs of any aircraft in its class. It will be the perfect aircraft for Philippine Airlines to reinforce its position as one of Asia’s leading premium carriers, especially on its longest intercontinental routes.”

The A350 XWB is the newest member of the Airbus widebody family. Featuring the most modern aerodynamic design, carbon fibre fuselage and wings, plus new fuel-efficient Rolls-Royce Trent XWB engines, the A350 XWB brings a 25 percent reduction in fuel burn and emissions, and significantly lower maintenance costs. For passengers the extra-wide cabin offers more personal space, including 18-inch wide seats as standard in economy class.

To date, Airbus has recorded 783 firm orders for the A350 XWB from 42 customers worldwide, already making it one of the most successful widebody aircraft ever.

Airbus Updates No.1472

Philippine Airlines selects the A350 XWB for future long haul fleet

Unrivalled efficiency and superior comfort for flights to the US and Europe

17 February 2016 Press Release

Philippine Airlines (PAL) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Airbus for the order of six A350-900s, with another six purchase options. The news was announced today at the Singapore Airshow by Jaime J. Bautista, President & COO of Philippine Airlines and Fabrice Brégier, President & CEO of Airbus.

Philippine Airlines will configure its A350-900s with a premium three class layout and will operate the aircraft on non-stop flights from Manila to the US west coast and New York, as well as on services to new destinations in Europe. The aircraft will enable the carrier to operate non-stop service on the 8,000 nautical mile New York – Manila route all year round with a full passenger load.

“After a thorough commercial and technical evaluation, the A350 came out on top in meeting our demanding requirements,” said Jaime J. Bautista, President & COO of Philippine Airlines. “With the A350 we will be flying the world‘s most modern airliner, bringing greatly enhanced efficiency and superior passenger comfort. The A350’s range capability has been an important factor in our decision, enabling us to offer non-stop service on all our premium long haul routes.”

“We are pleased to welcome Philippine Airlines as the latest airline to select the all-new A350 XWB,” said Fabrice Brégier Airbus President & CEO. “The A350 XWB has set new standards, combining extra-long range capability with the lowest operating costs of any aircraft in the larger twin aisle category. Passengers flying with Philippine Airlines can look forward to the new levels of comfort offered by the aircraft, with a wider and quieter cabin, and more personal space for all.”

The A350 XWB is world’s latest generation airliner and the newest member of the Airbus widebody family. Featuring the most modern aerodynamic design, carbon fibre fuselage and wings, plus new fuel-efficient Rolls-Royce Trent XWB engines, the A350 XWB brings a 25 percent reduction in fuel burn and emissions, and significantly lower maintenance costs. For passengers the extra-wide cabin offers more personal space in all classes, including 18-inch wide seats as standard in economy class.

To date, Airbus has recorded 777 firm orders for the A350 XWB from 41 customers worldwide, already making it one of the most successful widebody aircraft ever.

Airbus Updates No,1456

Iran selects Airbus for its civil aviation renewal

Agreements for 118 new aircraft, pilot training, airport operations and ATM support

28 JANUARY 2016 PRESS RELEASE

Iran officials have signed two agreements with Airbus covering new aircraft orders and a comprehensive civil aviation co-operation package. The agreements were signed at the Élysée Palace, Paris, during Iranian President Hassan Rouhani’s official visit to France with French President François Hollande.

Iran Air has signed an agreement with Airbus for the acquisition of the full range of new Airbus airliners (73 widebodies and 45 single aisle). This includes pilot and maintenance training and support services to help the entry into service and efficient operations of these new aircraft.

In parallel the Minister of Roads and Urban Development, Dr. Abbas Ahmad Akhoundi, has signed a comprehensive co-operation agreement as part of the country’s modernisation of its civil aviation sector, to support the development of air navigation services (ATM), airport and aircraft operations, regulatory harmonization, technical and academic training, maintenance, repair and industrial cooperation.

These two agreements took place as part of the implementation of the JCPOA (Joint Comprehensive Plan Of Action) on January 16th 2016, and its associated rules and guidance.

The agreement for 118 new aircraft signed by Mr Farhad Parvaresh, Iran Air Chairman and CEO, includes 21 A320ceo family, 24 A320neo family, 27 A330ceo family, 18 A330neo (-900), 16 A350-1000 and 12 A380.

"Today’s announcement is the start of re-establishing our civil aviation sector into the envy of the region and along with partners like Airbus we’ll ensure the highest world standards,” said Mr Farhad Parvaresh, Iran Air Chairman and CEO.

“The skies have cleared for Iran’s flying public and Airbus is proud to welcome Iran’s commercial aviation back into the international civil aviation community. Today is a significant step in the overhaul and modernisation of Iran’s commercial aviation sector and Airbus stands ready to play its role in supporting it,” said Fabrice Brégier, Airbus President and CEO.

Airbus is the world’s leading aircraft manufacturer of passenger airliners, ranging in capacity from 100 to more than 500 seats. Airbus has design and manufacturing facilities in France, Germany, the UK, and Spain, and subsidiaries in the US, China, India, Japan and in the Middle East. In addition, it provides the highest standard of customer support and training through an expanding international network.

Airbus Updates No.1355

Garuda Indonesia signs LOI for 30 A350 XWB

All-new widebody to develop carrier’s medium and long haul network

15 JUNE 2015 PRESS RELEASE

Garuda Indonesia has signed a Letter of Intent (LOI) with Airbus for the purchase of 30 A350 XWB aircraft. Garuda Indonesia plans to use the A350 XWB to develop its medium and long haul network, with the aircraft offering the ability to fly non-stop from Jakarta or Bali to Europe.

“Following our success in revitalising our regional operation in Asia and the Pacific, the development of our long haul network will be a priority in the coming years,” said Arif Wibowo, CEO of Garuda Indonesia. “With its reduced fuel consumption, range capability and extra wide cabin, the A350 XWB will be one of the options for us to reposition ourselves as a leading premium carrier in the competitive long haul market out of Asia.”

“We are pleased to welcome Garuda Indonesia as the latest airline to commit to the all-new A350 XWB,” said John Leahy, Airbus Chief Operating Officer, Customers. “The aircraft has set the new standard for the larger segment of the mid-size widebody market and is already proving to exceed expectations in service with its first operator. We look forward to seeing the A350 XWB flying in the colours of Garuda Indonesia as it extends its reach to more destinations across the world.”

The A350 XWB features the latest aerodynamic design, carbon fibre fuselage and wings, plus new fuel-efficient Rolls-Royce Trent XWB engines. Together, these latest technologies translate into unrivalled levels of operational efficiency, with a 25 per cent reduction in fuel burn and emissions, and significantly lower maintenance costs. For passengers, it brings new levels of in-flight comfort, with an extra-wide cabin offering more personal space in all classes, including 18 inch wide seats as standard in economy class.

The A350 XWB has been especially successful in the Asia-Pacific region, where airlines have ordered a total of 244 aircraft, representing almost a third of the 780 orders recorded so far worldwide.

Airbus Updates No.1246

Finnair orders eight additional A350 XWBs

Repeat order from a launch customer for Airbus’ new generation Widebody aircraft

3 DECEMBER 2014 PRESS RELEASE

Finnair, a launch customer for the A350 XWB, has signed an agreement, firming up the order for eight additional  A350-900s. Finnair was the first airline to select the A350 XWB and will be the first European airline in autumn 2015 to receive the all new Airbus Widebody. Finnair’s A350 XWBs will seat 297 passengers in a two class configuration. The aircraft will be deployed on Finnair’s long-haul routes to Asia and America.

"Our strategy centers on growth, taking advantage of the unique geographical location of our Helsinki Hub, which offers the fastest connections between Europe and Asia. The A350XWB aircraft will be essential in delivering on our strategy, as they enable growth in both passenger and cargo traffic, offer our customers top class travel experience and considerably enhance our cost competitiveness. Firming up the order for additional eight Airbus A350 XWB aircraft demonstrates our commitment to growth and to operating a world class Airbus fleet", says Pekka Vauramo, Finnair CEO." Together with Airbus and our other partners we are preparing to make the A350 entry into service a success.”

‘’We share a long-standing relationship with Finnair and are delighted by their continuing endorsement of the A350 XWB, which will integrate seamlessly into Finnair’s all Airbus fleet,” said John Leahy, Airbus Chief Operating Officer – Customers. “Finnair will benefit from the A350 XWB’s latest technologies and unbeatable efficiency, enhanced by the unique fleet commonality only Airbus offers.” 

Finnair currently operates an all Airbus fleet of 45 aircraft (30 A320 Family aircraft and 15 A330s/A340s). Finnair was launch customer of the A350, and in 2007 placed an order for 11 A350-900s, including an option for further eight. This agreement brings the total committed order to 19 A350-900s. The A350 XWB was designed above all for passengers’ comfort and well-being and will provide Finnair’s passengers with an excellent flight experience with the most advanced cabin with wider seats in both business and economy class.

The A350 XWB is the latest addition to the market-leading Airbus Widebody product line. Offering its customers a 25% reduction in fuel-burn, the all-new mid-size long-range A350 XWB Family aircraft can seat up to 369 passengers in a typical two-class layout. The A350 has carbon fibre fuselage and wings and sets new standards in terms of passenger experience, operational efficiency and cost-effectiveness. At the end of November 2014, the A350 XWB had won 775 orders from 40 customers worldwide.

Airbus Updates No.1240

Delta orders 50 Airbus widebody aircraft

25 A350-900 and 25 A330-900neo to join fleet of leading U.S. airline

20 NOVEMBER 2014 PRESS RELEASE

Delta Air Lines has placed a firm order for 50 new Airbus widebody aircraft, 25 A350-900 and 25 A330-900neo aircraft. Rolls-Royce Trent 7000 engines will power the Airbus A330neo aircraft and Trent XWB engines will power Airbus A350 XWB aircraft.

“When the most successful U.S. airline today – a company that has flown passengers around the world for more than 80 years, has 80-thousand employees and 165 million customers in a year – says ‘yes we want 50 more of your widebody planes’, you can’t debate the fact that it is a massive endorsement of your product line,” said John Leahy, Airbus’ Chief Operating Officer – Customers. “Airbus is unique in offering an optimized long-range choice in aircraft that will allow Delta to continue to modernize its fleet and customize its use with the most efficient and comfortable aircraft available.”

Delta Air Lines currently flies both Airbus single-aisle and widebody aircraft, including 57 A319ceo and 69 A320ceo aircraft, plus 11 A330-200s and 21 A330-300s. In addition to the order announced today, Delta has an order backlog of 10 A330-300s and 45 A321ceo aircraft, bringing its total Airbus backlog to 105 aircraft. 

The A350 XWB is the latest addition to the market-leading Airbus widebody product line. Offering its customers a 25 percent reduction in fuel-burn, the all-new mid-size long-range A350 XWB Family aircraft can seat up to 369 passengers in a typical two-class layout. The A350 has a carbon fibre fuselage and wings and sets new standards in terms of passenger experience, operational efficiency and cost-effectiveness. At the end of October 2014, the A350 XWB had won 750 orders from 39 customers worldwide. 

The A330 Family has now attracted more than 1,300 orders. Over 1,100 A330 Family aircraft are flying with more than 100 operators worldwide. The A330 is one of the world’s most efficient aircraft with best in class operating economics. Airbus has committed to continuously improving the program since the A330’s service entry. The company spends approximately 150 million euros each year on enhancements and incremental improvements for the A330 jetliner family. The newest evolution is Airbus’ A330neo, which builds on the A330’s proven economics, versatility and reliability while reducing fuel consumption by a further 14 percent per seat. Comprised of two versions – the A330-800neo and the A330-900neo – this aircraft incorporates latest-generation Rolls-Royce Trent 7000 engines with 112-inch diameter fan for a 10:1 bypass ratio, more seats and new cabin features. 

The A330, A350 XWB and A380 make up the Airbus widebody aircraft Family, which uniquely spans the 250 to over-500 seats segment.