Air New Zealand revamps short-haul fleet with Airbus
Contributors are not employed, compensated or governed by TD, opinions and statements are from the contributor directly
Air New Zealand has selected the new Airbus A320neo series to revamp its short-haul fleet.
The national carrier has placed an order for 10 A320neo and three A321neo aircraft, as well as one more standard A320. The agreement marks the first time Air New Zealand has ordered the new fuel-efficient Neo model and its first commitment for the larger A321 version.
The order is worth almost US$1.5 billion at current list prices.
“Operating one narrow body aircraft type will bring important efficiencies in training, maintenance and operating costs,” said Air New Zealand’s CEO, Christopher Luxon.
“The new Airbus Neo will help ensure we continue to operate one of the world’s youngest jet fleets and will further drive fuel efficiency allowing us to minimise our carbon footprint.”
The A320neo is designed to offer 15% less fuel burn and a greater range than the existing A320 series. Airbus has so far taken orders for more than 2,600 of the new aircraft, with the first A320neo due to enter service in 2015.
Air New Zealand currently operates a fleet of 29 single-aisle jet aircraft, including 22 A320s and seven Boeing 737s. But the B737s will be gradually phased out as more A320s join the fleet.
As well as the latest purchase, Air New Zealand has outstanding orders for a further five A320s.
Comments are closed.