Hamburg | February 20, 2020– Swiss International Air Lines (SWISS) has taken delivery of its first A320neo aircraft at a delivery ceremony in Hamburg, Germany. It is the first of 25 A320neo Family aircraft ordered by Swiss International Air Lines.

The A320neo Family incorporates the very latest technologies including new-generation engines, Sharklets and cabin efficiency enablers, which together deliver 20% fuel savings. With more than 7,300 orders received from over 110 customers since its launch in 2010, the A320neo Family has captured some 60% share of the market.

October 24, 2019– Airbus and Spirit Airlines have agreed to a Memorandum of Understanding for the U.S.-based airline to acquire up to 100 A320neo Family aircraft. Spirit announced its intention to place firm orders for a mix of A319neo, A320neo, and A321neo to meet its future fleet requirements.

“This new order represents another milestone for Spirit,” said Spirit Airlines’ President and CEO Ted Christie. “The additional aircraft will be used to support Spirit’s growth as we add new destinations and expand our network across the U.S., Latin America, and the Caribbean. We look forward to working with our valued partners at Airbus to finalise our agreement.”

“The Airbus A320 Family has been a strong platform for the remarkable success of Spirit over the past several years,” said Airbus Chief Commercial Officer Christian Scherer.  “The ongoing, enthusiastic spirit the airline demonstrates in our A320neo Family is most rewarding, and we look forward to playing a part in the Spirit team’s continued growth for many, many years to come.”

Spirit is a fast growing ultra-low-cost carrier in the Americas, based in South Florida.

Featuring the widest single-aisle cabin in the sky, the best-selling A320neo Family, comprising the A319neo, A320neo, and A321neo, deliver at least 20% reduced fuel burn as well as 50% less noise compared to previous-generation aircraft, thanks to incorporating the very latest technologies including new-generation engines and Sharklets. At the end of September 2019, the A320neo Family had received more than 6,650 firm orders from nearly 110 customers worldwide.

Hamburg, Germany | March 7, 2019– Wizz Air, the largest Central and Eastern European low-cost carrier, has taken delivery of its first of 184 A321neo aircraft on order at an event in Hamburg, with József Váradi, CEO Wizz Air and Christian Scherer, Airbus Chief Commercial Officer.

The new generation aircraft is powered by two Pratt & Whitney GTF engines and features the widest single-aisle cabin with 239 seats in a single class configuration and offers operators maximum flexibility, fuel efficiency and low operating costs.

Wizz Air is an all-Airbus operator, with more than 100 A320 Family aircraft operating all around Europe, with 261 more to be delivered. With 184 of the larger A321neo aircraft on order, Wizz Air is the largest Airbus customer worldwide of the type.

The A320neo and its derivative aircraft family members are the world’s best-selling single-aisle aircraft with over 6,500 orders from over 100 customers since its launch in 2010. It has pioneered and incorporated the latest technologies, including its new generation engines and the industry’s reference cabin design, delivering 20% fuel cost savings alone. The A320neo also offers significant environmental benefits with nearly a 50% reduction in noise footprint compared to previous generation aircraft.

Toulouse | November 20, 2018– Airbus has reached an agreement with easyJet that extends the airline’s fleet plans into 2023, exercising purchase rights to firm orders for 17 A320neo. This takes its combined order for the NEO to 147 (including 30 A321neo) and means easyJet has ordered 468 A320 Family aircraft to date.

“This repeat order cements easyJet’s position as the largest European operator of our leading A320 family,” says Christian Scherer, Airbus Chief Commercial Officer. “We are delighted that our aircraft keep contributing to easyJet’s ongoing success.”

The aircraft are configured with 186 seats in a single class configuration and powered by Leap CFM engines.

easyJet currently operates a fleet of 316 A320 Family including 17 A320neo and three A321neo, making it the world’s largest airline operator of Airbus’ single aisle aircraft. easyJet serves over 130 European airports in some 31 countries operating over 1000 routes.

The A320neo family is the world’s best-selling single aisle aircraft with more than 6,200 orders from over 100 customers since its launch in 2010. It incorporates latest technologies including new generation engines and Sharklet wing tip devices, which together deliver more than 15 percent in fuel savings from day one and 20 percent by 2020 with further cabin innovations. The A320neo also offers significant environmental performance with nearly 50 percent reduction in noise footprint compared to previous generation aircraft.

@flynas #A320neo #Airbus

Toulouse, France | November 13, 2018– Flynas, Saudi Arabia’s first low-cost airline, has begun taking delivery of its first of 80 A320neo Family aircraft. This follows an agreement signed in January 2017, with deliveries scheduled to take place from 2018 to 2026.

Flynas is the first operator in Saudi Arabia to acquire the A320neo and currently operates a fleet of 30 A320ceos. The A320neo, powered by CFM LEAP-1A engines, will support Flynas’ expansion plans while providing greater operational efficiency and passenger comfort.

Saudi Arabia is the largest domestic aviation market in the Middle East. Since its inception in 2007, Flynashas set ambitious growth plans that continuously develop its fleet in order to carry more passengers. In 2017, the airline carried more than 6.4 million passengers and over 3 million passengers during the first half of 2018.

The A320neo Family is the world’s best-selling single aisle aircraft with over 6,200 orders from more than 100 customers since its launch in 2010. It incorporates latest technologies including new generation engines and Sharklet wing tip devices, which together deliver more than 15 percent in fuel savings from day one and 20 percent by 2020 with further cabin innovations. The A320neo also offers significant environmental performance with nearly a 50 percent reduction in noise footprint compared to previous generation aircraft.

 

• first low cost carrier in Japan to operate A320neo

Japan | November 18, 2016– Japan’s Peach Aviation has signed a firm order with Airbus for the purchase of 10 A320neo and three A320ceo aircraft. The order was announced at a signing ceremony in Tokyo attended by Shinichi Inoue, Managing Director and CEO, Peach Aviation and Fabrice Brégier, Airbus President and CEO.

The aircraft will join Peach’s existing A320 Family fleet of 18 A320ceo with another two on order.With the addition of the A320neo, the airline will become the first low cost carrier (LCC) in Japan to operate the latest member of the popular A320 Family.

“Our A320 fleet is growing as our route network expands, not only in the domestic market but also to various Asian cities,” said Shinichi Inoue, Managing Director and CEO, Peach Aviation. “By introducing the A320neo to our fleet we will enhance even further our profitability while continuing to offer our passengers greater comfort with 18-inch wide seats. We believe that the A320neo will strengthen our position in the competitive Japanese aviation market.”

“We are pleased that Peach Aviation has placed this additional order for the A320 Family,” said Fabrice Brégier, Airbus President and CEO. “This further strengthens the position of the A320 Family as the aircraft of choice including the low cost sector in Japan. We are honoured by the confidence Peach Aviation has once again placed in our products and are sure that the A320 Family will contribute to the airline’s ongoing success as it expands its domestic and regional markets.”

The A320 Family is the world’s best-selling single aisle product line. To date, the Family has won about 12,800 orders and more than 7,250 aircraft have been delivered to some 400 customers and operators worldwide.

The A320neo Family incorporates the latest engines and aerodynamic enhancements, delivering more than 15 percent in fuel savings from day one and by 20 percent by 2020. With some 4,800 orders received since its launch in 2010 from 88 customers, the A320neo Family has captured over 60 percent market share in its category.

Featuring the widest cabin in the single aisle market, all members of the A320 Family offer unmatched comfort in all classes with 18” wide seats in Economy as standard. With one aircraft in four sizes (A318, A319, A320, and A321), the A320 Family seats from 100 to 240 passengers, seamlessly covering the entire single-aisle segment from low to high-density domestic to longer range routes.

• Additional A320neo to boost its capacity

Franborough, UK | July 11, 2016– At the opening of the Farnborough Air Show, held in the United Kingdom from July 11th to 17th, Air Côte d’Ivoire, Ivory Coast’s national airline based in Abidjan, signed a firm order for the purchase of an additional A320neo to complete its fleet. Air Côte d’Ivoire already distinguished itself in the spring by becoming the first African airline to order the A320neo.

“This additional A320neo will allow Air Côte d’Ivoire to truly differentiate its product by offering a higher level of comfort to its customers with new aircraft. Thanks to this new Airbus aircraft, Air Côte d’Ivoire will also improve its operating efficiency to better meet the need for traffic growth,” said General Abdoulaye Coulibaly, Chairman of the Board.

In three years, Air Côte d’Ivoire has tripled its number of passengers, and, with its new fleet, will position itself as the leader in this highly competitive region. It currently flies to 23 international destinations located in West and Central Africa, and to five domestic destinations. Air Côte d’Ivoire already operates six Airbus aircraft (four A319s and two A320), and this new commitment follows its previous order for four aircraft placed in April.

“This vote of confidence from Air Côte d’Ivoire is further proof of the rapid traffic growth in Africa, and of the leading role that this dynamic airline aims to play in the development of air transport on this continent. Airbus is delighted to contribute to this,” highlighted John Leahy, Airbus Chief Operating Officer, Customers.

The A320 Family is the world’s best-selling single aisle product line with over 12,500 orders since launch and more than 7,000 aircraft delivered to some 400 customer and operators worldwide. Thanks to their widest cabin, all members of the A320 Family offer unmatched comfort in all classes and Airbus’ 18” wide seats in economy as standard. With one aircraft in four sizes (A318, A319, A320 & A321), the A320 Family, seating from 100 to 240 passengers, seamlessly covers the entire single-aisle segment from low to high-density domestic to longer range routes.

• Paving the way for the delivery of the first A320neo with CFM LEAP engines in mid-2016

France | May 31, 2016– On 31st May 2016, the world’s best-selling single-aisle aircraft, the A320neo, received on-schedule the Type Certification from the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) and Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for the second engine option to be certified – CFM International’s* LEAP-1A engine. This certification paves the way for the delivery of the first A320neo equipped with this engine type in mid-2016. This award follows by six months the initial Certificate of Airworthiness received from the EASA and FAA for the A320neo, powered by the Pratt & Whitney engine option. The first A320neo was delivered on 20th January 2016.

Fabrice Brégier, Airbus’ President and Chief Executive Officer said: “This key milestone for the A320neo programme, and its second engine option – the specially developed LEAP-1A, is a double seal of approval by the two major international governing bodies and comes after the A320neo Family had successfully accomplished a rigorous programme of certification trials. We look forward to the entry into service of LEAP-powered models in the very near future.”

The two LEAP-powered aircraft assigned to the flight test campaign have now successfully accumulated over 1,000 flight hours in more than 350 flights – including 150 flight hours completed with the same aircraft in an airline-like environment to ensure operational maturity at entry into service. Certification of the remaining aircraft/engine variants with LEAP engines will follow in the coming months. When all flight testing has been completed, the NEO development fleet (with both engine options) will have achieved a combined total of 3,000 flight hours.

The A320neo Family offers unbeatable fuel efficiency. Featuring latest engine technologies, Sharklet wing-tip devices and cabin innovations, the A320neo Family aircraft offers the lowest operating costs of any single-aisle aircraft delivering 15% fuel burn per seat reduction at entry into service in 2016, and a 20% reduction by 2020. Furthermore, everyone will benefit from the A320neo’s enhanced environmental credentials – which include a significant decrease in C02 emissions and a nearly 50 percent lower noise footprint.

The A320neo Family offers airlines an engine choice between the Pratt & Whitney Pure Power PW1100G-JM and the CFM LEAP-1A engines. With one aircraft in three sizes (A319neo, A320neo, A321neo), the A320neo Family, seating from 100 to 240 passengers, allows operators to match the right aircraft size to demand and seamlessly covers the entire single-aisle segment on low to high-density domestic to longer range routes up to 4,000nm. Thanks to their widest cabin, all members of the A320neo Family offer unmatched comfort in all classes and Airbus’ 18-inch wide seats in economy as standard. Since its launch on 1st December 2010, the A320neo Family has received a tremendous market endorsement with more than 4,500 orders from over 82 customers, representing some 60 percent share of the market.

*CFM International is a 50/50 joint company between GE and Safran Aircraft Engines.

• First order of the A320neo in Africa

France | April 28, 2016– Air Côte D’Ivoire, the national airline of Ivory Coast based in Abidjan, has signed a firm order for two A320neo and two A320 aircraft. The agreement makes Air Côte D’Ivoire the first African airline to order the A320neo. The airline’s first purchase agreement directly with Airbus also makes Air Côte D’Ivoire a new customer.

Air Côte D’Ivoire selected the A320 Family for its wider cabin, low operating costs and excellent fuel efficiency. The airline has selected CFM engines for their A320 fleet. Air Côte D’Ivoire currently operates five Airbus aircraft on lease; 4 A319s and 1 A320.

The aircraft will feature a 2-class cabin layout. The new aircraft will fit seamlessly into the airline’s current fleet, thanks to Airbus’ fleet commonality, and best-in-class passenger comfort of any single aisle aircraft.

“With these new aircraft Air Côte d’Ivoire will position itself as a flagship airline in the region by offering its passengers the best on-board services. Air Côte d’Ivoire will also improve its punctuality and reliability thanks to these latest-generation Airbus aircraft,” said General Abdoulaye Coulibaly, Chairman of the Board.

“We are very pleased to welcome Air Côte D’Ivoire as our first customer for the A320neo in Africa. Our A320neo and A320 will offer Air Côte D’Ivoire the lowest operational costs and the highest seat comfort and widest cabins for its passengers. This order will play a key role in the development of Air Côte D’Ivoire with new routes to West and Central Africa,” said John Leahy, Airbus Chief Operating Officer, Customers.

This new order will strengthen the airline’s network that reaches today 23 international routes throughout West and Central Africa and 5 domestic destinations in Ivory Coast.

France | February 16, 2016– Airbus got off to a good start in 2016, in particular for its best-selling wide body family with 16 aircraft orders booked in January, comprising 14 all new A330-900neo’s from an undisclosed customer and two A320ceo’s from fast growing Hong Kong based lessor, CALC (China Aircraft Leasing Company).

The main highlight of Airbus’ deliveries in January 2016 was the very first A320neo that went to Lufthansa, the launch customer of the world’s best-selling and most fuel efficient single-aisle aircraft. Including the first A320neo, Airbus handed over a total of 22 aircraft in January to 18 customers, comprising 17 A320 Family, 4 A330s and one A380.

As a result of the fulfilment of conditions precedent occurring in January 2016, Airbus can now include an additional net 44 aircraft within the Year End 2015 Order Book, leading to an adjustment of the 2015 Full Year commercial results announced in early January. This increases Airbus’ 2015 total gross orders to 1,190 (valued at 159.9 billion US$) and total net orders to 1,080 (valued at 141.6 billion US$). Airbus 2015 end of year backlog stands at 6,831 valued at 1,000.9 billion US dollars at 2015 list prices.

Headquartered in Toulouse, France, Airbus is the leading commercial aircraft manufacturer with the most modern, comprehensive and efficient family of airliners, ranging in capacity from 100 to more than 500 seats. Employing some 55,000 people, Airbus champions innovative technologies and has sold over 16,300 aircraft to around 400 customers worldwide. Airbus has design and manufacturing facilities in France, Germany, the UK, and Spain, as well as subsidiaries in the US, China, Japan, India and in the Middle East. In addition, it provides the highest standard of customer support and training through an expanding international network.

For further information and updated 2015 full year commercial results: www.airbus.com/presscentre

Frankfurt, Germany | February 12, 2016– Lufthansa, Airbus and Pratt & Whitney holding a delivery ceremony in Hamburg – First scheduled A320neo flights with better fuel efficiency and more passenger comfort achieved through quieter engines – 40 years of partnership between Lufthansa and Airbus – Lufthansa Technik gains expertise in maintenance of the A320neo

Lufthansa, together with Airbus and the Pratt & Whitney engine manufacturer, celebrates the delivery of the world’s first Airbus A320neo. Carsten Spohr, Chairman of the Board and CEO of the Lufthansa Group, Airbus President and CEO Fabrice Brégier and the President of Pratt & Whitney Robert Leduc invited 700 guests and media representatives to the official delivery at Hamburg-Finkenwerder. Following the ceremonial handover, the first two new-type airplanes were presented to the public. The first A320neo, with the registration D-AINA, has already flown scheduled service since January. The second “neo” is expected to complement the Lufthansa Airbus fleet soon. The first experiences with the A320neo clearly show that the 15 percent lower fuel consumption mark has not only been achieved but even slightly exceeded. The significantly quieter engines also increase customer comfort on-board and provide relief to residents near airports by reducing noise emissions.

The development and introduction of the quietest and most fuel-efficient aircraft on short and medium distances is further evidence of the successful cooperation in the aviation industry at European level. “Europe has been a leader in this fascinating industry since the early days of aviation,” says Carsten Spohr. “Lufthansa and Airbus have developed a trusting and productive 40-year partnership. Together we have pushed ahead and brought to market many innovations and contributed to the success of the European aerospace industry. With new and efficient aircraft, such as the A320neo and the A350 XWB, we set new standards for our passengers, while reducing the impact on the environment and, not least of all, on the people living near airports.”

“On behalf of everyone at Airbus, I congratulate Lufthansa on being the A320neo launch customer. Together, we’re opening a new chapter in commercial aviation and I am confident that the A320neo will support Lufthansa objective to raise its environmental performance. The A320neo not only cuts emissions at every operational stage but also halves its noise footprint compared to previous generation aircraft,” said Fabrice Brégier, Airbus President and CEO.

“At Airbus we are have been proud to support Lufthansa’s growth over the past four decades with our partnership now spanning almost the entire Airbus family, from the A320 right up to the A380.”

“Pratt & Whitney is proud to build on its long and deep history with Lufthansa and Airbus by together marking a new era in commercial aviation with the delivery of the A320neo equipped with ultra-high bypass ratio Geared Turbofan engines,” Pratt & Whitney President Robert Leduc, said. “We applaud Lufthansa for being the first to enjoy the many benefits this aircraft and engine technology affords in terms of fuel efficiency and in reducing noise and emissions.”

This afternoon, the A320neo will take off from the Airbus facilities in Hamburg- Finkenwerder as a special flight with flight number LH9917 with guests and media representatives on board and fly with a short stop in Hamburg’s City Airport Fuhlsbüttel towards Frankfurt. The A320neo was fitted with a special logo. “First to fly A320neo – Less noise. Less fuel. Less CO2“ adorns the rear fuselage of the Lufthansa aircraft.
Another cause for celebration is the 40-year partnership between Lufthansa and Airbus. On 9 February 1976, Lufthansa received the first Airbus A300 at Hamburg-Finkenwerder. The airlines within the Lufthansa Group have ordered a total of 582 Airbus aircraft in the past 40 years. Lufthansa is the largest Airbus customer with currently 392 aircraft from the European manufacturer, including 284 aircraft from the A320 family and 14 A380.

The Lufthansa Group has ordered a total of 116 A320neos and A321neos, to be delivered in the next years. 60 aircraft will be delivered with the new PW1100G-JM engine from Pratt & Whitney. A special intermediary 3:1 gear conversion system ensures optimum speed of the 2.06 meter-cross-section fans and the turbine inside the engine. The new engines and improved aerodynamics allow a significant noise and emission reduction. With the new engine technology, the 85-decibel noise footprint of a new A320neo is only about half the size as a comparable aircraft of the existing fleet. In addition, the A320neo is at least 15 percent more fuel efficient than the previous A320 version. Calculated per-seat, this efficiency advantage increases to as much as around 20 percent, because the A320neo, through improved use of space in the cabin, allows more space in the business class compartment and two more rows with twelve additional seats on board.

Just in time for the adoption of the first A320neo, Lufthansa Technik is also ready for maintenance of the new airplane type and its systems. In the preparatory phase, Lufthansa Technik has laid out all technical, operational and personnel foundations for complete technical support of the A320neo. In the first step, employees at the Frankfurt mechanics hub were trained in Hamburg and Munich and equipped with the necessary resources. The training subsidiary of Lufthansa Technik has been certified by the Federal Aviation Authority. Currently, Lufthansa Technik has about one third of the world’s A320 fleet under exclusive component supply contracts.

If you are wondering why and IFEC newsletter features an airplane cockpit display its because we know you monitor two or three LCD displays (OK, e-Ink too) when you fly but so does the flight crew, and thus, we thought you might like to see them. Being bigger is truly better for flying, but also being LCD, the data source can be flexible for safety reasons, all switchable by the crew. Hey, it beats the fixed source electromechanical displays! We thought our readers might like to see where the cockpit display size is heading and the new Boeing 737 MAX is the perfect example. If you have not seen the wonderful Rockwell Collins large-format displays, check out this week’s rectangle image or download it for your desktop or screensaver image!

According to the company: “The Boeing 737 MAX took its first flight in Renton, Washington, making it the latest next-generation Boeing aircraft to fly with Rockwell Collins’ advanced large-format flight displays. More than 3,000 737 MAX aircraft are on order with the first delivery expected in 2017. The new 737 MAX flight deck includes four configurable 15.1-inch landscape LCD displays from Rockwell Collins that will increase situational awareness and efficiency. The displays will serve as a foundation for NextGen airspace technologies entering the marketplace.” Now, if you have not seen the 737 MAX first flight, you can watch it here: Boeing Completes Successful 737 MAX First Flight – Jan 29, 2016 . Rockwell went on to say; “We share Boeing’s pride in watching the 737 MAX soar, right on program schedule. This first flight was especially exciting for us since it marks the first time that Rockwell Collins displays have been featured on a 737 flight deck,” said Steve Timm, vice president and general manager, Air Transport Systems for Rockwell Collins. They went on: “Today’s event also marks the continuation of a strong collaborative relationship with Boeing to bring these advanced displays and flight deck commonality to its entire fleet of next-generation aircraft. In addition to the Boeing 737 MAX, Rockwell Collins is providing its large-format flight deck displays on the Boeing 787 Dreamliner, Boeing 777X, and the KC-46 Tanker. The displays are also an upgrade to legacy Boeing 767 and 757 aircraft.” The Boeing 737 MAX will feature four Rockwell Collins large-format, 15.1-inch LCD displays.

Editor’s Note: In the previously linked image you might note the HUD above the Captains seat – The head-up display is a Rockwell Collins product called Head-up Guidance System (HGS). It’s an option on the MAX (and the NG now, too), and is standard on the Boeing 787 (two of them, in fact, one for pilot and co-pilot). Rockwell told us the older HSI and ADI terms are now replaced by “PFD (primary flight display) and MFD (multi-function flight display)? The PFDs are on the outside and the MFDs are the two inner displays.”

Switching channels to the competition; on the Airbus front we found this: “The 737 MAX, like Airbus’ competing A320neo, is a relatively mild evolution of a mass-market airliner that has dominated the skies for decades. The original 737 dates back to the 1960s, improving over the years with different sizes and seating configurations, better engines, and longer range. The big thing with the MAX is the so-called LEAP-1B engine, promising 20 percent better fuel efficiency than the family of models it’s replacing. (The A320neo’s focal point is its new engine too and if you missed the A320neo first flight in Sept 25, 2014 here it is.”

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IFEC NEWS:

1. Gogo announced that its Gogo Vision product has been installed on more than 2,000 aircraft. The technology is disrupting the traditional “seat-back solution” model and has Gogo operating with scale as large as some of the biggest in-flight entertainment companies. Gogo is now the leading provider of wireless in-flight entertainment by a large margin and is making gains on becoming the largest in-flight entertainment provider in the world. “We know that passengers want entertainment on their own devices. We also know that almost everyone boards a plane with at least one Wi-Fi enabled device. Gogo Vision was built to take advantage of this trend,” said Ash ElDifrawi, Gogo’s chief commercial officer. “It has become successful because weight matters in aviation. When compared to traditional in-flight entertainment solutions, Gogo is much lighter weight, requires less maintenance and is lower cost.” More than 2,200 commercial aircraft are outfitted with the technology and more than 1 million videos are being watched through Gogo Vision each month. The video content is stored on a server on the plane and delivered to a passenger’s own device through Gogo’s in-cabin network. In the past year alone, Gogo added its Gogo Vision product to more than 1,000 aircraft including aircraft operated by most major U.S. airlines. “We continue to develop digital products and services that leverage our connectivity technology in support of our mission: to advance aviation by connecting every aircraft,” added ElDifrawi. “Whether that’s giving passengers access to the Internet and a host of in-flight entertainment options or building products and services that support airline operations, we continue to build products and services that are advancing aviation.” Editor’s Note: To use Gogo Vision the next time you are on a Gogo Vision flight, download the Gogo Vision app.
   On another Gogo front Michael Small, Gogo’s president and CEO noted; “In addition to a record number of installs in 2015, Gogo has also grown its awarded backlog of 2Ku aircraft to more than 800 aircraft. The company is ramping-up installations and expects to have most of those aircraft installed by the end of 2018. I couldn’t be more pleased with the performance of 2Ku.” He went on; “2Ku’s position as the premiere technology for global aviation is playing out in the market. We’ve been getting a great reaction from global airlines as they fly and experience this proprietary solution.” Across commercial and business aviation, Gogo operates more than 11,000 connected aircraft systems all over the world. (Editor’s Note: You probably should also read the MRO Network article on “The Death Knell for Traditional IFE Systems!”)
2. IFExpress ran into McTavish Botts, who attended the 2016 MRO Middle East (MROME) and Aircraft Interiors Middle East (AIME) meetings in Dubai this week. AIME is a two-day exhibition and conference that provides a for interiors suppliers, providers and buyers. It is co-located with MRO Middle East, an event delivering the latest innovations in aircraft interiors. AIME 2016 was held at Dubai World Trade Centre on 3 – 4 February. As the Middle East’s only aircraft interiors event, AIME 2016 featured over 278 exhibitors, over 4,500 attendees from over 100 countries, as well as some 100 airlines represented from around the world (over 700 attending) at the Dubai World Trade Centre. Representatives from local biggies like Emirates Airline, Etihad Airways and Qatar Airways were in attendance alongside many others who traveled from Africa, India and Europe to network and create relationships with the 278 exhibitors at the event. More importantly, Business Wire reported: “The Middle East is the second fastest-growing MRO market. By 2023, the MRO market in the Middle East will reach $7 billion, the result of 7.3% compound annual growth rate (CAGR).” We note that Mr. Botts provided the linked photos of the show and he asked us to show then to our IFExpress readers. Said Botts; “Of note, flydubai won the Inflight Magazine Best Airline Middle East Award (they have Lumexis FTTS IFE). Global Eagle Entertainment won best Middle East connectivity provider as well.” Botts didn’t give us the names of the other winners and for more about the show you might have to check Inflight Magazine FMI 

Images from MROME & AIME: Panasonic; Lumexis; Thales; Gogo; digEcor

• Paving the way to first delivery

France | November 24, 2015– The world’s best-selling single aisle aircraft, the A320neo, has received joint Type Certification from the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) on 24th November 2015. The certified aircraft is powered by Pratt & Whitney Pure Power PW1100G-JM engines.

The EASA A320neo type Certificate was signed by EASA’s Certification Director Trevor Woods and the FAA A320neo Type Certificate by Jeffrey Duven, FAA Manager of Transport Airplane Directorate – Aircraft Certification Service. The Type Certificates were handed over to Airbus’ Executive Vice President Engineering, Charles Champion and Airbus A320neo Chief Engineer Pierre-Henri Brousse.

“This double seal of approval represents a great achievement for Airbus. It recognizes the hard work performed by all the teams at Airbus and Pratt & Whitney. It demonstrates the A320neo is meeting all requirements,” said Fabrice Brégier, Airbus President and CEO. “The A320neo is now cleared for its first delivery and ready to offer many airlines its winning combination of unbeatable economics and outstanding cabin comfort.”

The A320neo successfully completed a rigorous programme of certification which tested its airframe and systems well beyond their design limits to ensure the aircraft successfully met all airworthiness criteria.

The three flight test aircraft powered by Pratt & Whitney engines successfully accumulated over 1,070 flight hours in some 350 flights. Of these 1,070 flight test hours, 300 were completed with the same aircraft in an airline like environment to ensure operational maturity at entry into service.

The A320neo with Pratt & Whitney engines is the first variant in the NEO Family to receive Type Certification. The A320neo with CFM engines will be certified in the coming months, the A321neo and A319neo in both engines variants will follow.

The A320neo Family incorporates latest technologies including new generation engines and Sharklet wing tip devices, which together deliver more than 15 percent in fuel savings from day one and 20 percent by 2020 with further cabin innovations. Launched on 1st December 2010, the A320neo offers airlines an engine choice between the Pratt & Whitney Pure Power PW1100G-JM and the CFM International LEAP 1A engines. With more than 4,300 orders received from over 75 customers since its launch in 2010, the A320neo Family has captured some 60 percent share of the market.

Once firm, order will mark over 400 A320neo sold in Latin America

France | June 17, 2015– Synergy Aerospace Corporation, Avianca’s largest shareholder and owner of Avianca Brasil, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Airbus for 62 A320neo Family aircraft. The agreement paves the way for Avianca Brasil to base its fleet renewal and network growth strategy on the A320neo Family.

“These 62 A320neo aircraft will make it possible for Avianca Brasil to take an important leap toward growing and modernizing its fleet, while improving passenger experience,” said German Efromovich, Chairman of Synergy. “Thanks to their excellent eco-efficiency, reliability and comfort, the A320neo Family will allow Synergy to strengthen its position in Latin America by offering Avianca Brasil passengers the best single aisle product available.”

“Airbus is proud that Avianca Brasil will rely on the unmatched productivity and fuel efficiency of the A320neo to renew its growing fleet and expand its network in South America,” said John Leahy, Airbus Chief Operating Officer, Customers. “The A320neo Family will deliver Avianca Brasil with enhanced performance capabilities in key airports such as Santos Dumont in Rio de Janiero.”

Synergy has ordered 10 A350 XWBs, six A330-200 passenger, one A330-200 Freighter and 20 A320 Family aircraft. Avianca Brasil operates 38 A320 Family and one A330 Freighter aircraft.

The A320 Family is the world’s best-selling single aisle product line with more than 11,700 orders to date and over 6,500 aircraft delivered to 400 customers and operators worldwide. The newest member of the A320 Family, the A320neo, incorporates many innovations including latest generation engines and Sharklet wing tip devices, which together deliver more than 15 percent in fuel savings from day one and 20 percent by 2020. With more than 3,800 orders received from 72 customers since its launch in 2010, the A320neo Family has captured almost 60 percent share of the market.

Once the order is firm, Airbus will have sold 407 A320neo aircraft to seven customers in Latin America — Avianca, Azul, Interjet, LATAM, Synergy, VivaAerobus and Volaris. With more than 950 aircraft sold and a backlog of almost 500, nearly 600 Airbus aircraft are in operation throughout Latin America and the Caribbean. In the past 10 years, Airbus has tripled its in-service fleet while delivering more than 60 percent of all aircraft operating in the region. In May, Airbus celebrated its 500th aircraft delivery in Latin America.

New A320 NEOs will be provisioned for PAVES Broadcast and PAVES Wireless IFE
Paris Air Show, Le Bourget, France | June 15, 2015– ALAFCO Aviation Lease and Finance Company, based in Kuwait, has selected a suite of Rockwell Collins avionics, including MultiScan ThreatTrackTM weather radar and Multi Mode Receiver (MMR), for 85 A320 NEO aircraft.

In addition, ALAFCO is provisioning its A320 NEO fleet for Rockwell Collins’ PAVESTM Overhead Broadcast and PAVES Wireless Content Distribution inflight entertainment system (IFE). Deliveries will begin in 2017.

“The avionics suite we’ve developed for ALAFCO, the largest aircraft leasing company in the Middle East, will deliver unprecedented capabilities in surveillance and navigation to its growing global customer base,” said Claude Alber, vice president and managing director, Europe, Middle East and Africa for Rockwell Collins. “Customers that opt to take advantage of our wireless and IFE systems will have access to faster onboard connectivity due to the wireless system’s ability to accommodate more than 200 passengers, as well as a variety of entertainment and information options.”

ALAFCO’s vice chairman and CEO, Ahmad A. Alzabin, said “I look forward to enhancing our company’s relationship with Rockwell Collins by selecting the latest avionics suite and IFE system for our 85 new A320 NEO aircraft. By selecting these new products from Rockwell Collins, our airline customers will benefit from their advanced navigational and operational capabilities.”

MultiScan ThreatTrack is the latest evolution of Rockwell Collins’ MultiScan weather radar solution, which was brought to market in 2002 and was the first with fully automatic, “hands-free” operation. MultiScan ThreatTrack is the only commercial airborne radar offered by both Airbus and Boeing that delivers market-first capabilities, including Two-Level Turbulence Detection and Predictive OverFlight™ Protection, while enabling inferred hail and lightning detection.

GLU-925 MMR, the first certified GPS Landing System receiver, enables high-integrity navigation, including RNP AR, Category III ILS and Category I Global Positioning Landing System approaches. The MMR also enables GPS position and availability requirements for ADS-B Out mandates.

The PAVES Broadcast overhead IFE system provides passengers with a wider range of information and entertainment content than previous offerings while significantly reducing size, weight and power consumption. The system’s HD media server offers 160 GB of solid-state digital audio and video storage capability, integrated pre-recorded announcements and music and the Airshow® 3D Moving Map.

Airbus’ fuel-efficient A320neo continues to conquer the market
Paris Air Show, Le Bourget, France | June 15, 2015– GE Capital Aviation Services (GECAS), the aviation leasing and financing arm of General Electric [NYSE: GE] has announced a firm order for 60 A320neo Family aircraft including the A321neo at the 51st International Paris Air Show. GECAS has selected CFM’s LEAP-X engine for all 60 A320neo aircraft.

The deal was jointly announced today by Norman C.T. Liu, President and CEO of GECAS and John Leahy, Airbus Chief Operating Officer, Customers. This new order brings the total number of A320 Family aircraft ordered by GECAS to 465, including 120 A320neo aircraft.

“The A320neo Family is the ideal solution for our customers who are seeking a product which offers them both attractive operating economics and reliable technology,” said Norman C.T. Liu, President and CEO of GECAS. “We see this fuel-efficient aircraft as a mainstay in our single-aisle portfolio for the years to come.”

“GECAS’ order for more of our best-selling A320neo aircraft, underscores the continuing strong market demand for these innovative, fuel-efficient and productive aircraft. These undisputed credentials make the A320neo an irresistible investment for leasing companies like GECAS who are committed to offering their customers products which deliver a solid return on investment,” said John Leahy, Airbus Chief Operating Officer Customers. “The unmatched, low operating costs and proven high dispatch reliability of the A320 Family make it a strong asset in GECAS’ portfolio.”

Toulouse, France | May 5, 2015– Following a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) announcement in February, Avianca has signed a purchase agreement for 100 A320neo Family aircraft, the largest single order ever made in Latin America’s aviation history. The agreement, which includes A319neo, A320neo and A321neo aircraft, will allow Avianca to maintain one of the youngest fleets in the region as the airline aims to replace airplanes currently operating from their Bogota, Lima and San Salvador hubs.

“This historic order allows us to solidify our passenger experience strategy in local markets on a broader scale,” said Fabio Villegas Ramirez, Avianca Chief Executive Officer. “Thanks to the A320neo Family’s fuel efficiency, technical reliability and unique passenger comfort, we can further Avianca’s fleet modernization process, while connecting the region and supporting its development.”

“For over 15 years, Avianca has benefitted from the excellent operating economics and award-winning reliability of the A320 Family,” said John Leahy, Airbus Chief Operating Officer, Customers. “The A320neo brings Avianca the highest efficiency at the lowest cost, making it ideally suited to operate within their network and especially within the region’s challenging airports.”

Established in Colombia in 1919, Avianca was the first airline in the Americas, and is the second oldest airline in the world. The Airbus-Avianca partnership was taken to a new level in 1998 when TACA (now part of Avianca), LAN, and TAM placed a joint order for 90 single-aisle aircraft. This was the largest joint contract ever signed in Latin American commercial aviation history. To date, the Avianca airline group has ordered nearly 300 aircraft including 276 A320 Family (among them, 133 A320neo Family) and 15 A330 Family.

The A320 Family is the world’s best-selling single aisle product line with more than 11,500 orders to date and over 6,400 aircraft delivered to 400 customers and operators worldwide. The newest member of the A320 Family, the A320neo, incorporates many innovations including latest generation engines and Sharklet wing tip devices, which together deliver more than 15 percent in fuel savings from day one and 20 percent by 2020. With more than 3,600 orders received from 70 customers since its launch in 2010, the A320neo Family has captured a solid 60 percent share of the market.

To date, the A320neo program has 345 firm orders from six customers in Latin America — Avianca, Azul, Interjet, LATAM Airlines Group, VivaAerobus and Volaris. With more than 950 aircraft sold and a backlog of nearly 500, more than 550 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.

• Major endorsement for Airbus single-aisles in world’s leading growth region

France | January 12, 2015– China Aircraft Leasing Company (CALC), the leading independent aircraft operating lessor in China, firmed up its contract in December 2014 with Airbus for 100 A320 Family aircraft. The order comprises 74 A320neo, 16 A320ceo and 10 A321ceo. Including this new order, CALC’s total backlog with Airbus stands at 140 A320 Family aircraft.

“Adding these A320 Family aircraft, including the latest generation A320neo to our portfolio, means we can fully meet all our customers’ requirements in terms of low fuel burn, high reliability and unbeatable comfort,” said Dr Mike Poon, CEO and Executive Director of CALC. “The A320 Family is without a doubt firmly established as a key asset in our fleet and the cornerstone of our single-aisle offering.”

“We are delighted to see CALC, a leading lessor based in the world’s leading growth market, come back for more of our popular A320 Family aircraft and we welcome them as a new customer for the A320neo,” said John Leahy, Airbus Chief Operating Officer, Customers. “This landmark order with CALC demonstrates the continuing strong market demand, in the short, medium and longer term for the current and new generation Airbus single-aisle Family.”

The A320neo “new engine option” incorporates many innovations, including latest generation engines and large Sharklet wing-tip devices, which together deliver 15 percent in fuel savings from day one and 20 per cent by 2020 which is equivalent to a reduction of 5,000 tonnes of CO2 per aircraft per year.

The A320 Family is the world’s best-selling single aisle product line with more than 11,000 orders to date and over 6,300 aircraft delivered. Thanks to its widest cabin, all members of the A320 Family offer the industry’s best level of comfort in all classes and Airbus’ 18” wide seats in economy as standard.

• Transition towards A330neo

Toulouse | October 17, 2104– Airbus has decided to adjust the production rate for its A330 Family from the current rate 10 to 9 aircraft a month in Q4 2015 as it transitions towards the A330neo.

Since 2013, Airbus has been building 10 A330 Family aircraft each month, the industry’s highest ever production rate for this aircraft size category, reflecting the strong success of Airbus’ market leading widebody family.

“Our role as an aircraft manufacturer is to anticipate and adapt our output to ensure we continue to maintain a smooth production flow for Airbus and for our supply chain,” said Tom Williams, Airbus’ Executive Vice President Programmes. “With the recent commercial success we’ve seen following the launch of the A330neo, in addition to the new 242 tonne weight variant and the A330 optimised for regional routes, we are confident we will sustain a steady production towards the A330neo ramp up period.”

The A330 Family, which spans 250 to 300 seats, and includes Freighter, VIP, and Military Transport/Tanker variants, has now attracted more than 1,300 orders, with over 1,100 aircraft flying with more than 100 operators worldwide. The A330 is one of the world’s most efficient aircraft with best in class operating economics. With numerous on-going product enhancements entering service in the coming years, such as the more capable 242 tonne take-off-weight variant, the A330 for regional and domestic routes and the A330neo, the A330 Family remains the most cost-efficient and capable widebody aircraft, averaging operational reliability above 99 percent. The A330 belongs to the successful Airbus Widebody aircraft Family, which comprises the A330, A350 XWB and A380, and uniquely spans the 250 to over 500 seats segment.

• Important endorsement for Airbus’ leading single aisle aircraft Family

France | October 15, 2014– India’s largest domestic airline by market share, IndiGo and its Co-Founders, Rakesh Gangwal and Rahul Bhatia, Group Managing Director of InterGlobe, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for 250 firm A320neo Family aircraft. The agreement will become Airbus’ single largest order by number of aircraft.

Aditya Ghosh, President of IndiGo said, “This new order reaffirms IndiGo’s commitment to the long-term development of affordable air transportation in India and overseas. The additional aircraft will enable us to continue to bring our low fares and courteous, hassle free service to more customers and markets and will create more job opportunities and growth. The IndiGo team is energised and excited to herald this new phase of our growth.”

IndiGo has previously placed orders for 280 Airbus aircraft (100 A320ceo and 180 A320neo).

“The A320neo continues to dominate world market share and this commitment confirms the A320 Family as the aircraft of choice in the most dynamic aviation growth markets. We thank IndiGo and its Co-Founders, Rakesh Gangwal and Rahul Bhatia for their tremendous vote of confidence,” said Fabrice Brégier, Airbus President and CEO.

The A320neo “new engine option” incorporates many innovations, including latest generation engines and large Sharklet wing-tip devices, which together deliver 15 percent in fuel savings from day one and 20 per cent by 2020 which is equivalent to a reduction of 5,000 tonnes of CO2 per aircraft per year.

The A320 Family is the world’s best-selling single aisle product line with almost 11,000 orders to date and over 6,200 aircraft delivered to 400 customers and operators worldwide. Thanks to its widest cabin, all members of the A320 Family offer the industry’s best level of comfort in all classes and Airbus’ 18” wide seats in economy as standard.

Farnborough was a big success for Airbus, who beat out Boeing almost 2 to 1, at least based on aircraft sales dollars there – $75.22B and $40.2B respectively, sort of! At show’s end, Airbus had some 496 aircraft orders/commitments from the show and Boeing chalked 201, but there were some deals in the works. There were 121 A330neo commitments, and 317 A320neo orders that included the 3,000th order of that family. Yes, Airbus beat Boeing “at the show” but a decision by Emirates in June to cancel 70 A350’s ($21B) and another decision in July to accept a Boeing deal for 150 B777x’s, with the right to purchase 50 more somewhat changes the picture. Since Emirates also cancelled the A350 orders, they might actually exercise the 50 B777 option. So where do they stand? While not technically a ‘Farnborough deal’, Emirates is purchasing 115 B777-9Xs and 35 B777-8Xs, the deal value adds over $70B to Boeing’s larder. Industry estimates say a big deal like this is only worth $31B, but if you add that to the $40.2B the show netted Boeing, it looks as if they are at least the July winner! (By the way, the Qatar 777X order announced at the show is indeed a firm order, so we are told.)

To help understand, we contacted Boeing and got this response: “There were no surprises on our end at the air show. We know that Airbus stockpiles orders specifically for the air show, while Boeing announces orders throughout the year. While the air show orders totals you list are correct, I should point out that Boeing went into the air show with more net orders for the year (Boeing 649, Airbus 290)—and we left the air show with more net orders for the year (Boeing 783, Airbus 648). The air show is simply one week out of 52″.

After reading Boeing’s Current Market Outlook we wondered how big the total IFE market over the next 20 years? Lets have some fun.

Below is the projected (20 years) airplane market in the study. We then made a seat number estimate at the average number of seats on each option. Finally, we picked an average seat IFE price of $5000 per seat with the assumption that each and every seat received IFE. Obviously our assumptions will not happen in real life; however, we wanted to get a feel for the cumulative market size, and based on a yearly IFE sale today of $2 – $3 Billion dollars, our dollar number estimate is roughly three quarters what is currently spent per year but we thought our readers would find the process interesting… and feel free to plug in your own numbers.

IFE 20-Year Market Growth Chart

If you look at the total seats from the aforementioned chart and multiply each seat by our $5,000 IFE estimate, you will get $36,208,250,000 as a total value of 20 years worth of seats. Now, divide by 20 years and the yearly total is $1.81B per year estimated average.

Lets stop for a minute and talk about the $5000 per seat for IFE. First, it is not realistic to assign IFE for every seat on the plane, on every plane, and the same value for every class of seat…we know that. And $5000 is probably good for a coach seat but we have heard numbers or upper class seats of at least $20,000… and we haven’t even mentioned inflation. Further, the aircraft seat numbers were arrived as an average number of seats per plane in the categories outlined in the Current Market Outlook. Our goal was not to give readers a NUMBER that reflects the some value that is slightly real today, but rather, a “water cooler” talkable number and a system to get there. Of course, real data clouds the result but we wanted a “number’ and thought this way, you could enter your own data and installation predictions/prices and show your boss how smart you are!

We should also note that the “number” does not include connectivity and new product developments and derivatives. Nor do we consider technology developments on the ground. If you look at IFE today and the consumer demand for IFE or connectivity, our numbers 20 years ago would seem way out of place today.

Then, for 20 years of IFE sales we average about $1.81B per year! We know the price per seat is going to go up, we know that there will be a lot of wireless connectivity and in-seat power and there will be many aircraft with no IFE. We also know an “average” seat count is not correct, and on and on. So don’t send us letters about how our assumptions are out of whack… we know it, we just wanted to get an average ‘feel’ of 20 years worth of value of the IFE business!

Along with the growth of the IFEC market value there is the growth in the design of IFEC, and the change in the content used. That is to say, in twenty years, IFEC will be different, and the content used in the new hardware will be different (i.e., 3D, 4D, “n”D, hi res., and so on). Make no mistake, it will change, not necessarily because the IFEC vendors want lighter weight hardware, not necessarily because airlines want different, higher quality content, but because passenger wants and needs will change just like they have over the last 10 years. If you think airlines are looking at HD video display because they want it, you might think again. It is the passenger home entertainment quality that keeps the demand for better movie quality. Today, if they are not satisfied with the screen, out comes the laptop, iPad, and in many cases, the personal telephone handset. What we are saying is, today it is the passenger that drives the IFEC requirements. If you need more proof, consider inflight Wi-Fi connectivity. Home Internet speeds are the driver that keeps the folks like Gogo, Panasonic and others awake at night. You climb aboard the most sophisticated flying machine ever invented and bring along a handheld device that has the fastest, lowest power consuming device/processor ever invented, and you just naturally expect the rest of the experience to be sterling because at your end, you have paid your dues. Guess what, connectivity to aircraft has not grown with the airplane technology, it came 90 years afterward so expecting it to develop at the same rate is unreasonable… it just is.

In reality, the IFE answer in the future could either be full-up everything, or nothing… based on what you believe passengers will bring aboard. In reality the answer may be both, and everything in between. If the past is any indicator, the aforementioned statement is probably going to be true. Want more proof, a reader sent us a link to one of the best airline position articles we have seen. As airlines become “hybrids” the world of aviation continues to change. It’s about Southwest, but we think you will get the message.

Next week we will have a look into the future with two if the best in IFE… Rich Salter and Michael Childers… don’t miss it.

For you history buffs, we supply a link and note we received in from a reader: “On Saturday, July 12, I led a walk-around tour at the Museum of Flight – covering the history of Boeing jetliners. My thrust was perhaps a little different from that which some may have expected. For me, the success of Boeing’s jet transport line was not the designing, and building, and flying of the 707 – it was something else – a subtle but profound attitude change inside Boeing. And the critical event was not the kick-off order for the 707 from Pan Am, but rather the later order from American Airlines – Bob Bogash.” The 707 is 60

• Lessor confirms strong market demand for the efficient A320neo Family

Farnborough, UK | July 17, 2014– Hong Kong Aviation Capital (HKAC), a fast growing aircraft leasing company based in Hong Kong, has signed a firm order with Airbus for a total of 70 A320neo Family aircraft (40 A320neo and 30 A321neo)

The contract was finalised at the 2014 Farnborough Airshow by Donal Boylan, CEO of HKAC and John Leahy, Airbus Chief Operating Officer, Customers. The agreement follows the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed at the 2013 Paris Air Show.

“We are pleased to have finalised the order for 70 A320neo Family aircraft with Airbus. The green credentials of the NEO is one of the key factors for us to choose the aircraft and through reduced fuel burn and emissions, HKAC will enable its airline clients to reduce operating cost while improving their environment impact,” said Donal Boylan, CEO of HKAC. “In addition, the A321neo will enable operators to deliver reduced operating cost per seat, and better compete where airport slots are restricted,” added Donal Boylan.

“We are delighted to welcome Hong Kong Aviation Capital as a new customer for the NEO. It demonstrates the continuing confidence of the market in the world’s most popular and efficient single-aisle aircraft. The A320neo Family is a valuable and profitable asset for lessors and operators”, said John Leahy, Chief Operating Officer, Customers.

HKAC currently has a portfolio of over 50 single and twin aisle Airbus aircraft. It provides financing leasing services to several airlines in Asia and worldwide. This is HKAC’s first direct order with any aircraft manufacturer.

The A320neo “new engine option” incorporates many innovations, including latest generation engines and large Sharklet wing-tip devices, which together deliver 15 percent in fuel savings and a reduction of 3,600 tonnes of CO2 per aircraft per year. With more than 3,000 orders received from more than 57 customers since its launch in 2010, the A320neo Family has captured some 60 percent of the market, clearly demonstrating its leadership.

• Customers endorse newly launched A330neo with 121 commitments;

• A320neo Family continues to outpace the competition with 317 orders

• Airbus achieves the 3,000th A320neo Family order during the show

Farnborough, UK | July 17, 2014– During the 2014 Farnborough Air Show, Airbus won US$75.3 billion worth of business for a total of 496 aircraft, making it by far the largest Farnborough show for Airbus – both in terms of dollar value and also in the number aircraft. The deals comprise Memoranda of Understanding (MoU) for 138 aircraft worth $36.9 billion and purchase orders for 358 aircraft worth $38.4 billion.

The show kicked-off with the launch of the A330neo, followed by a brisk slew of announcements from major customers for a total of 121 A330neos worth $33.2 billion. Leading the charge was Air Asia X with a deal for 50 A330-900neos worth $13.8 billion. This landmark selection from one of Asia’s fastest growing carriers, in addition to the stamp of approval from the leading lessors ALC, Avolon and CIT, have together provided further proof that Airbus and Rolls-Royce have made the right choice to build on the outstanding success of the medium-range A330 airliner with the latest technology Trent engines. Furthermore, in doing so, Airbus is proud to continue to develop this platform as the ideal complement to its bigger and long-range brother, the A350 XWB, in the Airbus leading Widebody Family.

In the single-aisle sector, Airbus’ A320 Family garnered an impressive 363 commitments worth $39.0 billion. Of these, the orders for 317 A320neo and A321neo aircraft worth $34.4 billion is a further reflection of how the A320neo Family continues to outpace the competition. To add the icing to the cake, Airbus achieved the 3,000th A320neo Family sale during the show. The milestone was reached when SMBC Aviation Capital ordered 110 A320neo aircraft, marking the show’s biggest vote of confidence for the leading Single Aisle aircraft Family.

John Leahy, Airbus’ Chief Operating Officer, Customers said: “The orders and commitments we’ve received at this record-breaking Farnborough for both the A330neo and A320neo families are together an unequivocally resounding endorsement for these most cost-efficient aircraft.” He adds: “For both our single-aisle and widebody categories, the high representation of lessors – widely regarded as the global ‘barometer’ of the industry – is indicative of the long term confidence in the capacity needs for sustainable growth for the airlines in the years ahead.”

Airbus is a leading aircraft manufacturer with the most modern family of airliners, ranging in capacity from 100 to more than 500 seats. Airbus has delivered more than 8,500 aircraft to some 360 customers worldwide and has a backlog of more than 5,500 aircraft. Airbus has design and manufacturing facilities in France, Germany, the UK and Spain as well as subsidiaries in the US, China, India, Japan and in the Middle East.

• Strong appeal of fuel-efficient A320neo continues to attract lessors worldwide

Farnborough | July 14, 2014– AerCap, the industry leading lessor headquartered in Amsterdam, the Netherlands, has firmed up an order for 50 additional A320neo Family aircraft at the Farnborough International Airshow 2014. The contract, AerCap’s first major aircraft order following the acquisition of ILFC earlier this year, was signed by Philip Scruggs, AerCap’s President & Chief Commercial Officer and Fabrice Brégier, Airbus President and CEO. AerCap will announce its engine selection in due course.

Including today’s order for 50 A320neo aircraft, AerCap’s total order of A320neo aircraft rises to 200 and its total orders of Airbus aircraft rises to 945. Following the lessor’s acquisition of ILFC, AerCap becomes Airbus’ largest customer overall, both in number and value of aircraft purchased.

AerCap’s CEO Aengus Kelly said: “The A320neo family is proving to be enormously successful. AerCap has already placed 48 A320neo aircraft under lease agreement or letter of intent, so our decision to firm up for 50 additional A320neo Family aircraft is a natural extension of our fleet strategy.”

“We are honoured that AerCap has selected our popular A320neo for its first major aircraft investment since the acquisition of ILFC earlier this year,” said Fabrice Brégier, Airbus President & CEO. “It’s always great news when our valued customers come back for more of our aircraft and is clear confirmation that our products are satisfying operators’ needs thanks to the A320neo’s best-in-class cabin comfort, unbeatable economics and excellent operational reliability.”

The A320 Family is the world’s best-selling single aisle product line with more than 10,500 orders to date and over 6,100 aircraft delivered. Thanks to its wide cabin, all members of the A320 Family offer the industry’s best level of comfort in all classes and Airbus’ 18” wide seats in economy as standard. The newest member of the A320 Family, the A320neo, incorporates new generation engines and Sharklets (wing tip devices) which together deliver 15 percent in fuel savings. At the end of June 2014, firm orders for the NEO reached over 2,800 aircraft from 55 customers, representing a 60 per cent market share in its category.

• Showcasing cabin comfort and innovation
• Demonstrating A350XWB and widebody leadership

Singapore | February 4, 2014– Airbus will have a major presence at the Singapore Airshow 2014, Asia’s largest aeronautical and defence airshow, taking place from 11^th-16^th February. Airshow visitors will be able to enjoy the all-new A350 XWB flight-test aircraft (MSN 3) performing its first ever airshow flying display on both, the 11^th and 12^th February.

A full scale A350 XWB cockpit as well as an interactive A350 XWB model will be on expo at the Airbus stand (J23) together with models of Airbus’ market-leading widebody product line and the successful A320neo. Guests can also discover Airbus’ benchmark cabin comfort standards in a dedicated Comfort Zone at the Airbus tent, located on the static display area.

Airbus will broadcast the A350 XWB flying display live, and provide daily airshow coverage and news via a special Singapore Airshow website on airbus.com and on youtube.com/airbus. In addition. Airbus will also broadcast a daily 30 minute live show, featuring Airbus experts and special guests. More details will be made available on www.airbus.com from February 11th.

Members of the media are invited to the Airbus press conference on Tuesday 11^th  February starting at 2:30 pm at the Singapore Airshow main exhibition Hall, Room 5. Airbus recommends media to follow alerts for upcoming events and announcements which will be posted in the airshow press centre, at the Airbus Group Chalet and Airbus Group stand.

The Airbus media relations team welcomes journalists to visit us at the Airbus Group business Chalet, CD19-CD29.

The Asia-Pacific region is a core market for Airbus with airlines from the region accounting for a third of the company’s total orders worldwide. Today there are more than 2,400 Airbus aircraft in service with nearly 100 airlines across the region and over 1,700 aircraft on order with Asia-Pacific carriers for future delivery. This represents over a third of the company’s total backlog, reflecting the importance of the region as the fastest growing market for new civil aircraft.