Continent’s fleet forecast to more than double over next 20 years

Seattle, Washington | December 21, 2018– Boeing [NYSE:BA] and Lagos-based Green Africa Airways today announced a commitment for up to 100 737 MAX 8 aircraft, evenly split into 50 firm aircraft and 50 options, as the airline gears up to begin commercial operations. The total deal carries a list-price of $11.7 billion, the largest aircraft agreement from Africa, and will be reflected on Boeing’s Orders and Deliveries website once finalized.

“Today is a historic day for the Nigerian and African aviation industry,” said Babawande Afolabi, Founder & CEO, Green Africa Airways. “This landmark deal takes us much closer to our long-held dream of building a world-class airline that will unlock a new realm of positive possibilities for millions of customers. Broadly speaking, this deal is a bold symbol of the dynamism, resilience and soaring entrepreneurial drive of the next generation of Nigerians and Africans.”

Green Africa Airways, a value airline based in Lagos, Nigeria aims to offer safe, quality and affordable air travel and be a significant contributor to the economic development of Nigeria and the African continent. The new airline has received its Air Transport License from the Nigerian government and is anchored by a group of senior industry leaders led by Tom Horton, former Chairman and CEO of American Airlines, William Shaw, Founder and former CEO of VivaColombia and Virasb Vahidi, former CCO of American Airlines.

“Nigeria is uniquely positioned to be the home of the next major value airline. The strategic partnership with Boeing positions Green Africa Airways to expand and improve air travel for customers in Nigeria, and further strengthens the relationship between the United States, Nigeria and Africa,” Vahidi said.

The airline initially plans to develop the Nigerian market and then build a strong Pan African network. According to Boeing’s 20-year Commercial Market Outlook, airlines in Africa will require 1,190 new airplanes as the continent boosts both intra-continental and intercontinental connectivity over the next couple of decades.

“The growth potential for air travel across Nigeria and Africa is extraordinary with the airplane fleet expected to more than double over the next 20 years. We are delighted that Green Africa Airways has selected the 737 MAX to serve this expanding market,” said Ihssane Mounir, Senior Vice President of Commercial Sales & Marketing, The Boeing Company. “We look forward to Green Africa Airways building their fleet with the MAX and taking advantage of the jet’s efficiency and dependability to open new options across Nigeria and the African continent. Boeing will be a trusted partner to Green Africa Airways as the MAX is introduced into their operations and through their long-term success.”

The 737 MAX is the fastest-selling airplane in Boeing history, accumulating more than 4,800 orders from over 100 customers worldwide. The airplane’s superior performance is enabled by the latest technology in the single-aisle market, including advanced CFM International LEAP-1B engines, Advanced Technology winglets, and other airframe enhancements.

Growing Middle East carrier commits to 30 orders and 20 options
Airline selects efficient 737 MAX for future fleet and international expansion

Seattle, Washington | December 21, 2018– Boeing [NYSE:BA] and flyadeal today announced the Middle East carrier is growing its fleet with the 737 MAX to take advantage of the airplane’s fuel efficiency, range and passenger comforts. The airline committed to ordering 30 airplanes with options for 20 more in a deal that would be valued at up to $5.9 billion at list price.

The deal is subject to both sides concluding final terms and conditions and a purchase agreement. It will appear on Boeing’s Orders & Deliveries website once all contingencies are cleared.

flyadeal, a subsidiary of Saudi Arabian Airlines, offers affordable flights within Saudi Arabia. Over the past year, the airline has conducted an evaluation process for 50 narrowbody airplanes to support domestic growth and potential international expansion. While flyadeal has been operating new Airbus A320s, the airline says it has selected the 737 MAX for the future.

Director General of Saudi Arabian Airlines, His Excellency Eng. Saleh bin Nasser Al-Jasser said, “The demand for air transport services in the domestic market of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has grown exponentially. A new brand, with a fresh identity focused on low-fares, flyadeal has brought to the market a new choice – which has been received very positively.”

Al-Jasser added: “The low-fares airline will continue to expand rapidly, and the addition to the fleet aligns well with flyadeal’s target to grow its presence in the domestic market and cover new markets outside of Saudi Arabia.”

flyadeal selected the 737 MAX 8 which has capacity for 189 passengers in a one-class configuration. Compared to flyadeal’s current fleet of A320s, the MAX 8 carries 12 more passengers and provides 8 percent lower operating costs per seat.

“flyadeal has opened up more affordable flights to millions of travelers and we are honored that the airline has chosen the 737 MAX to power its exciting expansion,” said Ihssane Mounir, senior vice president of Commercial Sales & Marketing for The Boeing Company. “We have supplied commercial airplanes to Saudi Arabia for more than 70 years and we look forward to finalizing this agreement and delivering advanced jetliners to flyadeal in the years ahead.”

Boeing’s partnership with Saudi Arabia’s aviation industry began in 1945 with the delivery of a DC-3 aircraft that gave birth to commercial air travel in the kingdom. Over the past seven decades, airlines in the kingdom have operated almost every Boeing commercial jetliner, including the 707, 737s Classics, MD-11Fs, 747s, 777s, and 787 Dreamliners.

The 737 MAX is the fastest-selling airplane in Boeing history, accumulating more than 4,800 orders from over 100 customers worldwide. The airplane’s superior performance is enabled by the latest technology in the single-aisle market, including advanced CFM International LEAP-1B engines, Advanced Technology winglets, and other airframe enhancements. For more information and feature content, visit www.boeing.com/commercial/737max.

Based in Jeddah, flyadeal offers flights to eight domestic destinations including Riyadh, Jeddah, Dammam, Qassim, Tabuk, Gizan, Madinah and Abha.

Toulouse, France | November 9, 2018– Airbus logged a combined total of 85 orders in October for NEO versions of its single-aisle A320 and widebody A330 jetliner families while delivering 81 aircraft from the A220, A320 and A330 and A350 XWB product lines during the month.

Leading the new business were 67 bookings for the twin-engine A321neo and A320neo. Vietjet’s firm order for 50 A321neo aircraft brought the overall number of A320 Family jetliners ordered to date by this Vietnamese carrier to 171. Also included in the October order book was German-based Lufthansa’s acquisition of 17 A320neo aircraft.

In the widebody segment, orders were logged during the month for 18 A330neo jetliners – the latest version of Airbus’ popular twin-engine A330 Family. An undisclosed customer acquired 10 A330-900s, and Kuwait Airways placed an order for eight of the shorter-fuselage A330-800 versions.

The new business in October brought Airbus’ net orders for the January-October 2018 timeframe to 340 aircraft. This was composed of 264 single-aisle jetliners (250 A319/A320/A321neo and 14 A319/A320/A321ceo versions) and 76 widebody aircraft (22 A330neo and four A330ceo jetliners, along with 36 A350 XWBs and 14 A380s).

October’s deliveries were made to 40 customers, involving twoA220s, 67 A320 Family jetliners (of which 48 were A320/A321neo aircraft), three A330-200/A330-300s, and nine A350 XWBs in the A350-900 and A350-1000 versions. Among the notable delivery milestones during the month was the first A220 provided to a U.S. carrier – an A220-100 version received by Delta Air Lines. Additionally, Airbus surpassed the 500-delivery mark for its A320neo/A321neo jetliners in October.

Taking the month’s order and delivery activity into account, Airbus’ overall backlog of jetliners remaining to be delivered as of October 31 stood at 7,386 aircraft, representing approximately nine years of production at current rates.

2018 Airbus Orders

• Turkish Airlines announces intent to order 40 787-9 Dreamliners

New York | September 21, 2017— Boeing [NYSE: BA] and Turkish Airlines today announced the airline’s intention to order 40 787-9 Dreamliners. The order will be reflected on the Boeing Orders and Deliveries website once finalized.

“The 787 Dreamliner is the most technologically advanced airplane in the world,” said M. İlker Aycı, chairman of the board and the executive committee, Turkish Airlines. “Our intent to purchase these Dreamliners is to meet the demand for wide-body airplanes at the 3^rd Airport, further strengthen our fleet capacity on the 100th anniversary of the Republic and to enhance passenger satisfaction.”

“Turkish Airlines is a great partner, and we value their confidence in us and the 787 Dreamliner,” said Boeing Commercial Airplanes President and CEO Kevin McAllister.

Boeing and the Turkish government also announced the Boeing Turkey National Aerospace Initiative, which is designed to support the growth of the Turkish aerospace industry, in conjunction with the targets set by Turkey’s Vision 2023, and strengthen Boeing’s presence in the market.

“Boeing’s relationship with Turkey spans more than 70 years and we have outstanding long-term partnerships,” said Ray Conner, Boeing vice chairman. “Working together with Turkey, we are now taking our collaboration to the next level, which will accelerate the growth of the Turkish aerospace industry while achieving Boeing’s long-term objective to expand its presence in the marketplace.”

The initiative outlines a strategic framework that aligns Boeing investment and programs with the government, Turkish airlines, aerospace service companies and industry suppliers in the areas of research, engineering and skills development. It reflects Boeing’s confidence in the long-term outlook for Turkey as a significant market and a leading global industry participant.

Boeing has maintained a long-standing and mutually beneficial relationship with Turkey since the 1940s. Boeing is a provider of commercial jetliners to Turkish airlines and a significant and trusted partner of the Turkish aerospace industry.

 

• New airplanes to boost capacity on domestic routes

Seattle, Washington | September 20, 2017–Boeing [NYSE: BA] and Japan Airlines (JAL) announced an order today for four 787-8 Dreamliners. The order, which was previously listed on the Boeing Orders & Deliveries website, attributed to an unidentified customer, is valued at more than $900 million at current list prices and will expand JAL’s Dreamliner fleet to 49 airplanes.

“This order for additional 787 Dreamliners, is a key part of our strategy as we look to bolster our existing route network and strengthen our position ahead of the 2020 Summer Olympic Games in Tokyo,” said Yoshiharu Ueki, President of Japan Airlines. “The superior noise performance of the 787 will play a critical role in meeting our commitment for quieter operations within our domestic network going forward.”

Japan Airlines currently operates the second largest 787 Dreamliner fleet in the world, with 34 airplanes. The carrier is expected to receive its 35^th Dreamliner, a 787-9 later this week. With this new order, Japan Airlines’ 787 fleet include 29 787-8s and 20 787-9 airplanes.

“We are honored to partner with Japan Airlines once again as they further expand their world-class fleet with additional 787 Dreamliners,” said Kevin McAllister, President and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes. “JAL has been able to successfully grow its business over the years, while generating healthy profits due to the efficiency and reliability of their 787 fleet.”

Japan Airlines became the first airline in the world to take delivery of a 787 powered by fuel-efficient General Electric GEnx engines in 2012. In addition, JAL was one of the first airlines to launch new routes with the 787, as it launched its Boston and San Diego routes with the Dreamliner that same year.

The 787 Dreamliner family is being operated on more than 530 routes, with 150 brand new nonstop routes planned or in service since the airplane began commercial service in 2011. To date, 69 customers worldwide have placed orders for 1,278 airplanes, making the 787 Dreamliner the fastest selling twin-aisle airplane in Boeing history.

Nouakchott, Mauritania | August 8, 2016– Boeing (NYSE:BA) and Mauritania Airlines have finalized an order for one Next-Generation 737-800 airplane, valued at $96 million at current list prices.

“The Boeing 737 is the backbone of Mauritania Airlines fleet because of its efficiency and superior operating economics,” said Mohamed Radhy Bennahi, chief executive officer of Mauritania Airlines. “The addition of this new 737-800 will greatly expand our network and enhance the overall travel experience of our passengers.”

The 737-800 is one of the best-selling versions of the highly successful Next-Generation 737 family, the most technologically advanced single-aisle airplane family. Mauritania Airlines’ new 737 will feature the Boeing Sky Interior, the 787 Dreamliner inspired cabin. On board, passengers will enjoy a greater sense of spaciousness with decorative sculpted sidewalls, larger window reveals, LED mood lighting and larger pivot overhead stowage bins.

“Mauritania Airlines has been an important player in West African aviation for several years,” said Van Rex Gallard, vice president of Sales for Africa, Latin America and the Caribbean, Boeing Commercial Airplanes. “Today’s order for one additional 737-800 underlines Mauritania Airlines’ position as a leading carrier committed to providing its passengers with a growing choice of destinations and exceptional in-flight comfort.”

Based in Mauritania’s capital city Nouakchott, at Nouakchott-Oumtounsy International Airport, Mauritania Airlines was founded in 2010 and currently serves more than 10 destinations across Africa and Europe. The Mauritanian flag-carrier currently operates a fleet which includes one Next-Generation 737-700 and two 737-500s.

• Reflecting success of Airbus widebody on carrier’s long haul low fare routes

Manila | July 29, 2016– Manila-based Cebu Pacific has placed a firm order with Airbus for two A330-300s. The aircraft will join an existing fleet of six A330s flying with the airline on long range flights to destinations in the Middle East and Australia, as well on selected domestic and regional routes.

“The A330 has proven to be the right choice for our long haul low fare product,” said Lance Gokongwei, Cebu Pacific President and Chief Executive Officer. “The newly ordered aircraft will enable us to add more long haul routes, including the launch of our first flights to the US. We are excited to be expanding our widebody fleet, offering more low fare options for our customers to fly further than ever before.”

“This order from Cebu Pacific is another endorsement of the unrivalled efficiency of the A330 for profitable long haul low cost services,” said John Leahy, Airbus Chief Operating Officer Customers. “Combining low operating costs, proven reliability and a great passenger experience, the A330 is the clear preferred choice of airlines in this competitive market segment. We are looking forward to working with Cebu Pacific as it grows its long haul services and flies to more destinations across the world.”

Cebu Pacific currently operates 49 Airbus aircraft, including six A330s and a fleet of 43 A320 Family single aisle aircraft flying on its extensive domestic and regional network. In addition to the contract announced today, the airline has 32 latest generation A321neo aircraft on order for future delivery.

The A330 is one of the most popular widebody aircraft ever, having now won over 1,600 orders. Today, over 1,300 aircraft are flying with some 120 airlines worldwide on a wide range of routes, from domestic and regional flights to long range intercontinental services of up to 13 hours. Offering the lowest operating costs in its category, and thanks to continuous investment and innovations, the A330 is the most profitable and best performing aircraft in its class.

• Order combines current and new engine types

New York and France | July 26, 2016– New York-based JetBlue Airways has amended its purchase agreement with Airbus to include an additional 15 Airbus A321ceo (current engine option) and 15 A321neo (new engine option) aircraft. The airline, which already operates A321s, has not yet announced its engine selection for the newly ordered aircraft. Beginning in 2019, JetBlue has the flexibility to configure the New Engine Option aircraft to the Longer Range version of the A321 – the A321LR.

“Airbus has been our partner since the beginning, and we are proud that our partnership continues today,” said Robin Hayes, president and CEO, JetBlue. “The A321 is an incredible aircraft that is delivering results for our business. We intend to deploy many of these aircraft to expand our successful Mint experience and our west coast presence.”

Many of JetBlue’s newly ordered A321 aircraft are expected to be delivered from Airbus’ newest manufacturing facility in Mobile, Alabama. The first aircraft to be produced at Airbus’ U.S. Manufacturing Facility – a JetBlue A321 known as “BluesMobile” – is on public display today at the EAA AirVenture air show in Oshkosh, Wisconsin. BluesMobile was delivered to the airline and entered service this spring.

“When we decided to build an assembly line in the U.S., we did it to help meet the increasing demand from our U.S. customers,” said John Leahy, Chief Operating Officer – Customers. “The A320 Family is a market leader worldwide – one that has found particularly great success in the United States because of its economics, efficiency and comfort. We look forward to delivering more and more aircraft from our U.S. facility to our customers here in America.”

JetBlue currently operates a fleet of 160 A320 Family aircraft, including 130 A320s and 30 A321s. Including the order announced today, the airline’s backlog of Airbus aircraft comprises 116 planes: 25 A320neo, 31 A321ceo, and 60 A321neo aircraft.

The A320 Family is the world’s best-selling single aisle product line with almost 12,600 orders since launch and more than 7,100 aircraft delivered to more than 320 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, 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.

To sum up Farnborough 2016 for the commercial airplane sales (Airbus & Boeing only), we saw 461 planes ordered worth a total of some $61.8 Billion dollars. It is also wise, to give you an idea of the sales history involved. In 2014 the total aircraft sales for the year (not just at an air show) was worth some 1,444 new aircraft, and this was a peak. By 2015, the total yearly aircraft sales had dropped some 36%! So, the question will be: At the end of 2016, what will be the total new aircraft sales numbers for this year? New aircraft delivery backlog is at its all time high (12,000 aircraft), so layoff’s are not a focus yet, but the sales number at the end of 2016 will be interesting especially if the market for travel drops, after all, orders can be cancelled.

Summarizing, here is how the new aircraft sales breakout went: Airbus outsold Boeing by some 100 aircraft. Interestingly, The Wall Street Journal reported that Boeing had just 20 new firm orders and not one B777 was to be found amongst them. Back in October, 2015, Bloomberg noted: “As planes come off lease it may get tougher for Boeing to generate fresh sales of current-generation 777s, one of its biggest sources of profit, said George Ferguson, senior air transport analyst with Bloomberg Intelligence. While the backlog for the twinjet extends to 2018, the successor 777X, with new engines and a larger wing, won’t begin deliveries until 2020, leaving the manufacturing line in Seattle potentially vulnerable.” We now wonder if production line rates will be an issue if sales are not found.

Airbus – Total 279 aircraft orders worth $35B based on list price, while the approximate value is around $15B. Furthermore, of those announcements 197 planes were firm aircraft sales – worth $26.3B, and 82 committed aircraft – worth $8.7B. We note that Airbus included a deal that was announced last year for 62 planes.

Boeing – Total 182 aircraft orders worth $26.8B based on list price. Among these, only 20 were firm new orders (last year that number was some 100 planes higher). We also note that roughly 42 planes were already on the books but there were 100 provisional deal in the works.

We also received an input from another airline news source, Airline Weekly – Jason Cottrell/Jason Shabat and they responded to the Boeing 36% drop in aircraft sales at this year’s Farnborough and they noted: “… it’s clearly a much slower market than it was a few years ago and that probably won’t change anytime soon. However the backlogs are so giant that it might not be any big catastrophe for the manufacturers. The big thing I watch is if the Gulf carriers start canceling widebody orders. That would be a financial disaster.”

Continuing on, future airplane forecasts are usually interesting, and this year is no different:

BOEING forecasts demand for 39,620 new commercial aircraft (2,380 regional; 28,140 single-aisle; 8,570 wide-bodies; 530 VLAs), including 930 freighters, worth $5.9T in 2016-2035 (up 4.1% from last year’s Current Market Outlook). All this is based on 4.8% annual passenger traffic growth.

AIRBUS forecasts demand for 33,070 new >100-seat aircraft (23,530 narrow-bodies; 8,060 wide-bodies; 1,480 Very Large Aircraft), including 645 new freighters, worth $5.2T in 2016-2035 (up 1.5% vs last year’s forecast). All this is based on 4.5% annual passenger traffic growth.

Lastly, Airbus has just one thing to say to Boeing, and boy is this video classy – it will catch you by surprise! One thing to say to Boeing – YouTube

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IFEC NEWS

Panasonic:
China Eastern commits to an 84 aircraft deal with Panasonic and the agreement includes production aircraft and extensive retrofit program for global broadband connectivity service. The leading Chinese carrier, which, in partnership with China Telecom Satellite, was the first to offer broadband Wi-Fi connectivity on flights over Chinese airspace, and this agreement strengthens its long-term relationship with Panasonic. The extended agreement – following the announcement of 20 Boeing 777-300ERs last November – includes 35 line-fit aircraft with and an extensive retrofit program covering an additional 49 aircraft. (READ MORE)

Thales:
Thales booked orders for its AVANT IFE system from Gulf Air for 39 787-9s, A320neos and A321neos on order for delivery starting in 2018, and from Japan Airlines for retro t on 11 777-200s. (This is the first retro fit order for the AVANT system).

Telefonix PDT:
Telefonix PDT has announced that their Cabin IFE equipment has been tested and certified for use in China.

Rockwell Collins:
Rockwell Collins today was named by Airbus as its top supplier in the Supplier-Furnished Equipment (SFE) category and received an Excellent In-Service Performance award. The company was honored at a special ceremony at the Farnborough Airshow. Out of 41 suppliers rated in the SFE category, Rockwell Collins topped the list at No. 1. (READ MORE)

Boeing/Google:
Bet You Didn’t Know This: The Folks at Boeing and Google have a new technology that combines the maddening work of building wiring harnesses (charts, drawings, data sheets, pin diagrams etc.) with a device on your head that shows “what goes where”. Why is this a big deal? Here is a better description of the pilot program: “During the pilot, when a participant showed up for work she’d first visit a lockbox to check out a Glass unit, and then go to her computer to login and authenticate the device on the network, according to DeStories. For authentication, the tech would put on the smartglasses and scan a QR code generated by the system on her computer, which then pushed the wire harness app to the smartglasses. Next, the tech would head to her work station on the assembly floor, grab the next “shop order,” and then scan another QR code on the box of components, which provided necessary status updates or notes and told her where to get started, DeStories says.” Do you see any application to IFEC… like harness building, onboard installation and testing, etc? Google Glass takes flight at Boeing | Network World

Astronics:
Astronics Test Systems, a wholly owned subsidiary of Astronics Corporation (NASDAQ: ATRO), today announced the availability of a new Frequency Time Interval Counter (FTIC) in collaboration with National Instruments Corporation (NASDAQ: NATI) (“NI”). The new Astronics PXIe-2461 is a high-performance, two channel, universal 235 MHz frequency interval counter. It is the first product developed from Astronics’ collaboration with NI, announced in November 2015, to revitalize legacy aerospace and defense test systems. (Read More)

Inmarsat:
Inmarsat has received type approval from the Government of the People’s Republic of China for its IsatPhone 2 technology, making it the only international operator legally eligible to sell handheld satellite phones in the country. (Read More)

Lufthansa Systems:
Napster has taken over the skies as the first music streaming service in Germany! Streaming services are enjoying increasingly more popularity, whether at home, on the way to work, at the gym or on vacation at the beach. To enjoy the diverse range of music in the air, Napster and Lufthansa Systems have formed a strategic partnership. Through Lufthansa System’s BoardConnect, Napster will offer passengers selected playlists and audiobooks for adults and children, making traveling more enjoyable and entertaining. By this summer, Napster and Lufthansa Systems together want to equip the first airline with the service, Eurowings. (Read More)

Sapphire Innovation:
Research shows lack of cash-flow transparency means airlines are being too cautious notes Sapphire Innovation. Over ninety percent of airlines know cash-flow forecasting and working capital optimization are priorities for their organization, according to recent research by Sapphire Innovation. Despite that, over 70 percent don’t have an effective cash-flow forecasting solution in place. Paul Smith Eldridge, General Manager and President of Sapphire Innovation, said, “This survey shows the huge disconnect between airlines recognizing that predictive cash-flow forecasting is a business enabler, and actually having an effective solution in place. Sapphire Innovation’s survey, carried out among 39 global carriers, also identified that nearly half of airlines continue to rely almost entirely on spreadsheets to predict cash-flow, which is highly inefficient.” (Read More)

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OTHER STUFF

Amazon Video now lets you download video’s and TV directly to Android SD cards – for your next flight, of course, take a pocket full of SD cards! Amazon Video now lets you download movies and TV straight to Android SD cards | The Verge

France | January 12, 2016– Building on another solid performance last year, Airbus will be seeking further improvements in the company’s competitiveness during 2016 – becoming even more efficient and innovative, with an increasingly diverse international presence.

This was the forward-looking strategy outlined by President and CEO Fabrice Brégier today at the year-opening press conference in Paris, underscoring continuous improvement in 2015 that boosted its speed and efficiency – enabling a new Airbus record of 635 aircraft to be delivered during the past 12 months.

Simpler and more efficient ways of working also are contributing to Airbus’ competitiveness, along with the expansion of its international manufacturing presence, which includes start-up of A320 Family jetliner production at the new U.S. final assembly line in Mobile, Alabama. As a result, aircraft production is underway on three continents (in North America, Europe and Asia), making Airbus a truly global manufacturer, Brégier said.

Brégier also highlighted the important strides achieved in China, where the A320 Family final assembly line at Tianjin delivered a new record total of 50 aircraft in 2015. Airbus has extended this activity for another 10 years, with additional prolongation anticipated in the future, he stated. Planning also is moving ahead for Tianjin’s new cabin completion and delivery centre, starting with the A330 based on orders received from China last year for A330ceo (Current Engine Option) jetliners, according to Brégier.

Ambitious production and delivery targets in 2016, plus innovation at the forefront

Airbus’ goal for 2016 is to deliver on its ambitious production expansion/ramp-up strategy, Brégier said, setting a target of delivering more than 650 aircraft to customers during the 12 months.

This objective includes the continued upswing in A320 Family production during 2016, reaching an output rate of 50 per month by early 2017 and subsequently going to 60 monthly by mid-2019; along with the delivery of at least 50 A350 XWBs in 2016 (compared to 14 in 2015).

Airbus is looking to attain another break-even year for the A380 in 2016, providing a number similar to the 27 delivered in 2015; while A330ceo production will level at a rate of six per month as the transition is made to the A330neo (New Engine Option). The first A350-1000 version of the A350 XWB will enter the final assembly line next month, enabling its first flight before year-end; while final assembly line activity for the initial A330neo is expected to begin in the fourth quarter of 2016.

Airbus’ commercial priority for 2016 is to continue its market leadership role, with Brégier anticipating another busy year – targeting a book-to-bill ratio [the ratio of orders received to the units delivered and billed] of at least 1 during the coming year, with the more than 650 total aircraft to be delivered during this timeframe.

Applying digital technology for more efficiency

Brégier said Airbus’ culture of innovation is another important attribute for the company as it looks to the future. During 2015, Airbus opened BizLab facilities in Toulouse, Hamburg and Bangalore to speed up the transformation of new ideas into valuable business propositions, and the company launched pilot/prototype co-innovation projects with certain airline customers.

He noted that Airbus is working with its Airbus Group parent company on digital transformation, which includes closer relationships with the “active and creative world” of Silicon Valley in the U.S.

In addition, Brégier explained that Thierry Baril, the Chief Human Resources (HR) Officer of Airbus Group and Airbus, is introducing new digitalization in the HR process that will simplify employees’ daily lives at work, enhance their value and enable the further development of their talents, as well as increasing visibility across the workforce.

“Such digital initiatives accelerate the pace at which we develop and introduce new ideas and innovation while improving our aircraft and the efficiency of our operations,” Brégier told journalists.

• Confirms continuing strong appetite for best-selling, fuel efficient A320 Family

France | January 7, 2016– BOC Aviation, the Singapore-based global aircraft leasing company owned by Bank of China, has announced an order for an additional 30 A320 Family aircraft, comprising 18 A320neo Family aircraft and 12 A320ceo Family aircraft.

“This order underscores our continued confidence in the reliability and operational efficiency of the A320 family aircraft, and reflects its popularity among our customers for short- and medium-haul routes,” said Robert Martin, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of BOC Aviation.

“BOC Aviation is a leading lessor based in a fast-growing part of the world, and its latest order not only demonstrates its continued confidence in our product for its airline customers but recognizes the A320 as a sound financial asset in its portfolio,” said John Leahy, Airbus Chief Operating Officer, Customers. “We appreciate the mutually beneficial and strong relationship we have built with BOC Aviation over the past 20 years. With this order, BOC Aviation becomes one of Airbus’ top 10 customers.”

Including this latest purchase agreement, BOC Aviation’s cumulative orders to date for new Airbus aircraft have reached a total of 306, comprising 12 A330s and 294 A320 Family, including 64 NEOs.

With more than 12,300 aircraft ordered, and more than 6,800 aircraft delivered to more than 400 customers and operators worldwide, Airbus’ A320 Family is the world’s best-selling single-aisle aircraft family. 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. With more than 4,400 orders received from close to 80 customers since its launch in 2010, the A320neo Family has captured some 60 percent share of the market.

• Order bolsters Air China’s growing widebody fleet for international expansion

Seattle, WA | January 7, 2016– Boeing [NYSE:BA] and Air China today announced an order for six additional 777-300ER (Extended Range) jetliners. The order is valued at more than $2 billion at current list prices and bolsters Air China’s long-haul widebody fleet as it looks to expand its international network.

“The 777-300ER has consistently proved its value as a long-haul flagship for our customers around the world, making it the preferred choice for Air China’s international expansion,” said Ihssane Mounir, senior vice president, Northeast Asia Sales, Boeing Commercial Airplanes. “This order reflects the strength of our decades-long relationship with Air China and we look forward to partnering with Air China on additional opportunities in the future.”

China’s flag carrier continues to modernize its long-haul fleet to replace aging aircraft and plans to expand its growing network internationally. Air China currently operates a fleet 174 Boeing airplanes, including nearly all current Boeing production models, including the Next-Generation 737, 747-8 Intercontinental as well as 777-300ERs.

With this new order, Air China will increase its unfilled airplane orders with Boeing to 90 units, which include orders for new 787-9 Dreamliners.

The 777-300ER is one of the most fuel and cost-efficient airplanes in its class as well as the most reliable twin-aisle aircraft in the world. It also has the highest cargo capability of any passenger airplane in service. The 777-300ER will receive further improvements in 2016 designed to reduce fuel use by another two percent.

• 762 airplanes delivered, 768 net orders booked
• 2015 accomplishments include first 737 MAX rollout, 777X firm design configuration

Seattle, WA | January 7, 2016– Boeing (NYSE: BA) delivered 762 commercial airplanes in 2015, 39 more than the previous year and most ever for the company as it enters its centennial year.

“The Boeing team has worked hard to achieve strong performance,” said Boeing Commercial Airplanes President and CEO Ray Conner. “Our team did a fantastic job achieving higher deliveries and getting our products to our customers as quickly and efficiently as possible. This will continue to be our focus.”

In 2015, Boeing recorded 768 net orders, valued at $112.4 billion at current list prices. At year end, Boeing held 5,795 unfilled orders from customers worldwide.

“We had a solid year of orders in 2015, maintaining a strong, balanced backlog that will help ensure a steady stream of deliveries for years to come,” said Conner.

Worldwide demand for air travel has continued to be robust, said Randy Tinseth, Vice President, Marketing, Boeing Commercial Airplanes.

“Global passenger traffic in most key regions is increasing,” said Tinseth. “Our customers continue to perform well in the marketplace and we’ll continue to support them with the industry’s best products and services.”

In addition to the orders and deliveries, the company marked a number of other milestones in 2015:

Five customers received their first 787 Dreamliners, including Oman Air, Scoot, American Airlines, KLM Royal Dutch Airlines and Vietnam Airlines
The 747 team delivered the 100th 747-8, the 767 program received its largest single order ever from FedEx and the 777 program announced a 2 percent fuel improvement package
The newly expanded Seattle Delivery Center opened its doors to pave the way for increased 737 production
The first 737 MAX rolled out of the factory in December
The 787-10 team completed detailed design of the newest member of the 787 family, while the 777X reached firm configuration, allowing the team to begin detailed design of parts, assemblies and other systems for the airplane
“Our newest development products are on schedule and poised to provide world-class value to our customers,” said Conner. “We could not have accomplished all we did in 2015 without the support and hard work of our employees, suppliers, partners and the community.”

Orders, deliveries and unfilled orders as of Dec. 31, 2015, by program were as follows:

Family	Gross Orders	Net Orders	Deliveries	Unfilled Orders
737	666	588	495	4392
747	6	2	18	20
767	49	49	16	80
777	58	58	98	524
787	99	71	135	779
Total	878	768	762	5795

SEATTLE, March 09, 2009 — Boeing [NYSE: BA] and Mexicana Group today announced a lease agreement for 25 Boeing 717-200 airplanes to be used by Mexicana’s Click operation.

Under a multi-year arrangement, MexicanaClick will begin receiving the 717s from Boeing Capital Corporation in March, making Mexicana the first North American 717 operator outside the U.S. Boeing Capital is the world’s largest lease provider of the modern, fuel-efficient twin jet.
In addition to the airplanes, Boeing through its Commercial Aviation Services group will provide training for flight crew, cabin crew and maintenance staff as well as spare parts provisioning. In total this approach represents a comprehensive Boeing solution to Mexicana Group’s fleet renewal needs.

“With these 25 airplanes, we give a strong boost to MexicanaClick and a better way to improve the passengers’ experience and the airline’s operating efficiency to maintain its leadership both in quality of equipment as well as on-board services,” said Manuel Borja, Mexicana Group director general.

The Boeing 717 has distinguished itself in service to nine airlines on four continents. Designed for quick turnaround, high-frequency and short- range markets (up to 1,500 nautical miles), the 717 offers big-jet passenger comfort with the lowest noise and emissions in its class. The Rolls Royce-powered 717s will replace Fokker F-100s operated by the airline.

“At a time when economic conditions pose challenges to airline operators and travelers, the 717 offers a wealth of value–greater fuel efficiency, lower maintenance costs, a modern flight deck and spacious interior,” said Tim Myers, Boeing Capital Corp. vice president for structured financing. “We’re pleased to join forces with Mexicana to bring the 717 to the region.”

Click’s 717 fleet will be configured to carry 104 passengers with 20 in Mexicana Elite class, with two-by-two seating, allowing all passengers to enjoy either aisle or window seats, and 84 in tourist class where the five-abreast, wide leather seats will appeal to travelers.

Boeing and Mexicana have worked together for decades. The airline was among the world’s largest operators of the Boeing 727 and its current long-haul routes depend on the Boeing 767.

“We congratulate MexicanaClick on joining the ranks of airlines that depend on the 717’s high dispatch reliability and low maintenance costs to compete successfully,” said Ihssane Mounir, vice president for Latin American sales, Boeing Commercial Airplanes. “Add to that a quiet and fuel-efficient airplane, with great comfort and passenger appeal and an average fleet age of less than five years, and the result is a great platform to grow Click’s market success.”