Tata Group-owned Air India has announced its commitment to order 250 Airbus aircraft to boost its domestic and international operations.
The order includes 140 A320neo and 70 A321neo single-aisle aircraft as well as 34 A350-1000 and six A350-900 wide-body jets that will mark a new era for the country’s aviation sector.
The order aims to both modernise and expand Air India’s fleet with the objective of creating a larger and premium full-service carrier that will cater for the growing travel demands in the region. The first A350-900 is set to be delivered by late-2023.
“These new aircraft will play an important part in delivering Vihaan.AI, Air India’s comprehensive transformation and growth strategy,” said Campbell Wilson, CEO and MD, Air India. “A core element of this transformation is the significant expansion of our network, both domestically and internationally, coupled with the elevation of our on-ground and onboard product to world-class standards.
“This is a historic moment for Airbus and for Air India. India is on the verge of an international air travel revolution and we are honoured that our partnership with the Tatas and our aircraft solutions will write that new chapter for the country’s air-connectivity,” commented Christian Scherer, Airbus chief commercial officer and head of international. “The A350’s unique capability will unlock the pent-up potential of India’s long-haul market. Its technology, long reach and second to none comfort will enable new routes and passenger experiences with better economics and enhanced sustainability. Alongside the A350s, the A320 Family fleets will be the efficient, versatile asset to continue democratising and decarbonising air travel in the country.”
The A350’s clean sheet design includes state-of-the-art technologies and aerodynamics delivering unmatched standards of efficiency and comfort. Its new generation engines and use of lightweight materials bring a 25% advantage in fuel burn, operating costs and carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions, compared to previous generation competitor aircraft.
The aircraft offers a 3-class configuration cabin that is said to be the quietest of any twin-aisle aircraft and offers passengers and crew a modern, comfortable long-range flying experience.
The A321neo is the longest-fuselage member of Airbus’ single-aisle A320 Family, comfortably seating 180 to 220 passengers in a typical two-class layout, and as many as 244 in a higher-density arrangement.
The A320neo has already set the standards as the world’s most comfortable short-to-medium-haul aircraft that typically accommodates from 140 to 170 passengers, with a maximum capacity of up to 180 travellers. Its environmental performance allows for at least 20% less fuel burn and CO2 emissions as well as 50% noise reduction, compared to previous generation aircraft.
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