Russia’s Transaero buys four A380s
Contributors are not employed, compensated or governed by TD, opinions and statements are from the contributor directly
Transaero Airlines, Russia’s second largest airline, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Airbus for the purchase of four A380 aircraft. The agreement was signed by Olga Pleshakova, Transaero Airlines’ CEO, and Christopher Buckley, Airbus’ Executive Vice President for Europe, Asia & the Pacific.
Transaero will become the launch customer for the A380 in Russia, the CIS and Eastern Europe. The Russian carrier plans to start operations with the A380 on its long-haul network from Moscow. The double-decker aircraft will feature a three-class cabin layout, seating approximately 700 passengers, making it one of the highest capacity passenger aircraft in the world.
“Transaero is experienced in operating long-range wide-body aircraft, and is now ready to offer the A380. I am sure that the operation of this high capacity aircraft will stimulate the development of Russia’s aviation sector, in particular airports infrastructure while passengers will benefit from a completely new experience.” said Ms Pleshakova.
“We are very pleased to welcome Transaero as the launch customer for the A380 in Russia,” said John Leahy, Airbus’ Chief Operating Officer – Customers. “We definitely see market potential for the A380 in Russia. Passenger traffic in this region is expected to increase at an average rate of 5.6% per year over the next 20 years. We are convinced that the A380 is the best and most eco-efficient aircraft to meet those market requirements,” he added.
Transaero Airlines launched in November 1991 and currently serves more than 130 routes, including key Asian destinations such as Bangkok, Beijing, Ho Chi Minh City, Kuala Lumpur and Singapore.
Airbus has now racked up 236 A380 orders from 18 customers worldwide, of which 59 aircraft have been so far been delivered to seven customers.