Air One Orders Ten More A320s
Airbus S.A.S. | Feb. 09, 2007
Air One has announced on Feb. 9 that the purchase of a further ten A320s, following contracts signed with Airbus in November and December last year. The Rome-based airline, the second largest in Italy, has now firmly ordered a total of 40 A320s and has a further 25 options and 25 purchase rights, according to the initial agreement announced in January 2006.
Air One's newly ordered A320s are powered by CFM International CFM56-5B6/P engines, and will offer a comfortable two-class cabin layout for up to 159 passengers. They will gradually replace the airline's current fleet of Boeing 737s. With the additional A320s, Air One, which is already serving 23 destinations, will be able to launch new routes in Europe.
Carlo Toto, President of Air One, said: "The purchase of these additional ten A320s comes as part of our company's growth strategies, with a view to achieving major development in the international market as well as consolidation in the domestic marketplace over the next few years. The Airbus A320s assure superior comfort and economics, as well as lower operating costs."
John Leahy, Airbus COO Customers said: "We are delighted that Air One is reconfirming its confidence in Airbus by acquiring further A320 aircraft. We are sure that the aircraft's advanced technology and efficiency, as well as its popularity with passengers and crews, and its market-leading environmental characteristics, will greatly contribute to Air One's continued growth."
Airlines value the A320 for its weight-saving composite structures and fuel-saving aerodynamic design. According to independent surveys, passengers prefer the greater space and comfort offered by the A320 Family cabin, including wider seats. The A320 Family's impressive level of dispatch reliability further enhances profitability and passenger service. With just over 5,000 orders and a healthy backlog of over 2,000, the A320 family is the clear leader in this market segment.
Airbus is a leading aircraft manufacturer with the most modern and comprehensive family of airliners on the market. It has delivered over 4,500 aircraft to more than 250 customers worldwide.