All-new widebody to develop carrier’s medium and long haul network
Paris Air Show, Le Bourget, France | June 15, 2015– 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’ 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.”