UTair, one of Russia's leading carriers, has signed a firm contract with Airbus for 20 A321 aircraft during the Farnborough Air Show. This is the largest order for the type received from a carrier in the region and the first time that UTair has ordered Airbus aircraft.

‪UTair's A321s will feature a spacious single-class cabin layout seating 220 passengers. The airline is planning to operate these new aircraft to further develop its charter network of popular leisure destinations.

‪‪‪"Today's signature of the contract on the delivery of new A321s demonstrates our firm intentions to continue to grow and strengthen our positions among leading Russian carriers. The chosen A321 aircraft fully meets the requirements of our fleet modernization programme, aimed at providing reliable operations, improving the level of service and developing the network", remarked Andrey Martirosov, UTair CEO.

‪"We are delighted to welcome UTair as a new Airbus customer in Russia and the latest for the A320 Family," said John Leahy, Airbus Chief Operating Officer, Customers. "This best-selling single-aisle aircraft offers not only superb technology but also unbeatable economics, which will contribute to the airline's continued growth and fleet expansion. We look forward to a long-term partnership with UTair", he added.

UTair airline, one of the most dynamic Russian carriers from the top three, was founded in 1967. The airline is operating a fleet of some 200 aircraft to over 60 domestic and some 40 international destinations.

The A320 Family (A318, A319, A320 and A321) is recognized as the benchmark single-aisle aircraft family. As of today, more than 8,500 Airbus A320 Family aircraft have been sold to 365 customers and operators worldwide, making it the world's best selling commercial jetliner ever. With proven reliability and extended servicing periods, the A320 Family has the lowest operating costs of any single-aisle aircraft.

Contributed by Airbus S.A.S.