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Drukair expands fleet with Airbus A320neo and A321XLR units
Drukair - Royal Bhutan Airlines, the national flag carrier of the Kingdom of Bhutan, recently signed a memorandum of understanding with Airbus for three A320neo and two A321XLR aircraft as it seeks to expand its international network. Deliveries of the new aircraft are expected to begin by 2030. Drukair plans to fly its impending acquisitions from Paro International Airport and the new airport at the country’s upcoming economic hub Gelephy Mindfulness City (GMC.) Currently, Drukair operates four Airbus A320 Family aircraft, specifically three A319s and one A320. The airline's headquarters are in Paro, Bhutan where it operates scheduled flights to 10 international destinations, including five countries in the South Asian region. Drukair also flies to three domestic destinations. A new chapter Drukair CEO Tandi Wangchuk said of the purchase: “We are thrilled to embark on this new chapter in Drukair’s history, which dovetails perfectly with development of the Gelephu Mindfulness City and work to expand the Gelephu airport. Our investment in these state-of-the-art aircraft underscores our dedication to supporting Bhutan’s vision of holistic and mindful development.” Benoît de Saint-Exupéry, Airbus’ executive vice-president of sales, expressed his gratitude for Drukair’s trust in the company, particularly as it is poised for expansion. He said: “Airbus has been a long-standing partner of Bhutan and we are extremely proud that our latest generation aircraft will be a part of the Kingdom’s next chapter of development, connecting the Gelephu Mindfulness City to the rest of the world.” Both locations are key to Drukair’s expanded connectivity to Australia, Southeast Asia, and Europe.
Cebu Pacific inks major purchase with Airbus
Cebu Pacific (CEB) announced that it has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Airbus and Pratt & Whitney for what is now seen as the largest aircraft order in the history of Philippine aviation. The MOU covers firm orders for up to 102 A321neo, plus 50 A320neo Family purchase rights. CEB also selected Pratt & Whitney GTF™ engines to power the future aircraft. The cost of the purchase is an estimated US$24 billion based on list prices. The purchase agreement to finalize this transaction is expected to be completed in the third quarter of the year. Flexibility in the air CEB CEO Michael Szucs explained that the order is designed to give the airline the flexibility to choose between the A321neo and A320neo aircraft as needed. By doing so, CEB adapts faster to any market changes. Szucs added: “This deal is a significant milestone in our ongoing mission to make air travel more accessible and affordable for everyone while supporting the Philippine growth story.” Airbus executive vice-president for commercial aircraft sales Benoît de Saint-Exupéry said of the purchase: “These latest generation aircraft will enable the carrier to reduce its operating costs and continue to offer low fares in a competitive market environment. We look forward to continuing to work with the airline as it builds on its position as one of the leading low-cost carriers in the Asia-Pacific region." Pratt & Whitney’s president of commercial engines Rick Deurloo stated that CEB’s latest order stands as proof of the growing opportunities for aviation in the Philippines and the Asia Pacific in general. Deurloo said: “Our GTF™ engine will power this growth while delivering industry-leading fuel efficiency and sustainability benefits for single-aisle aircraft. Cebu Pacific’s order attests to the value it provides.”
Saudia Group orders 100 + new Airbus jets
Saudi Arabia's national airline ordered more than 100 new Airbus jets, a reflection of the kingdom's ambitious drive to lure more tourists. Saudia Group, which represents the Saudia airline and its budget carrier Flyadeal, said Monday that it ordered 105 aircraft from the French aerospace company's A320neo family of jets, including 12 A320neos and 93 A321neos. That brings Saudia Group's Airbus aircraft order backlog to 144 of the A320neo family planes. Saudia said it is increasing flights and seat capacity across its existing 100-plus destinations to meet the country's goal of attracting more than 150 million tourists by 2030. In February, Airbus reported healthy results for its commercial aircraft business in its latest annual earnings report and set a target of 800 commercial aircraft deliveries, 67 more than in 2023. Airbus’s fortunes contrast with struggles at U.S. rival Boeing, which seemed finally to be recovering from two crashes of Max jets in 2018 and 2019 that killed 346 people in Indonesia and Ethiopia. But on Jan. 5, a door plug blew out of an Alaska Airlines 737 Max 9, and the company has been reeling ever since. Airbus has benefitted from its decision to launch the A321neo, a single-aisle aircraft with 180 to 230 seats. “Neo” stands for new engine option, meaning highly fuel-efficient engines that save airlines money on one of their biggest costs. Boeing rushed to match it with the Max, a 737 equipped with new, more efficient engines, only to run into a myriad of technical issues. Despite Boeing's woes, Airbus is unlikely to extend its advantage in the Airbus-Boeing duopoly much further because the company already is making planes as fast as it can, with a backlog of more than 8,600 orders to fill.
Fiji Airways Set to Fly with New Airbus A350 Service to Dallas
Fiji Airways, the flag carrier of Fiji, is making significant strides in expanding its reach into the United States. The airline has recently applied for a new route from Nadi International Airport (NAN) to Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW), marking a significant milestone in its North American operations. New Dallas Service The proposed service to Dallas is currently awaiting approval from the US Department of Transportation. Once approved, this route will be the longest in Fiji Airways’ network. The airline plans to deploy its Airbus A350 widebody aeroplane on this route, boasting 334 seats. Flights are planned to operate three times a week on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, commencing as soon as all required government approvals are received. Existing North American Services Fiji Airways already operates several services to North America, including flights to Vancouver, Canada, Honolulu, San Francisco, and Los Angeles, United States. According to the aviation analytics company Cirium data, the airline deploys a mix of Boeing 737 MAX 8, Airbus A330, and A350 aircraft on these routes. Partnership with American Airlines In June, Fiji Airways announced a partnership with American Airlines for a unified frequent flyer program. This partnership allows mutual customers to unlock more destinations and travel experiences through the AAdvantage® program. Fiji Airways already operates codeshare flights across the US in partnership with American Airlines, offering passengers connections to numerous destinations such as Albuquerque, Atlanta, Austin, Boston, Charlotte-Douglas, Chicago, New York, Oklahoma City, Philadelphia, Phoenix, Portland, and many others. The new route to Dallas Fort Worth International Airport, American Airlines’ biggest hub, is expected to further extend this relationship. Oneworld Membership Fiji Airways will also enhance its global connectivity by becoming a full oneworld member in 2025. The airline has been an Oneworld Connect partner since 2018 but announced in June that it is taking further association with the alliance to full membership. The oneworld network includes over 900 destinations in 170 territories. Full membership will offer Fiji Airways passengers access to hundreds of lounges globally and other privileges and rewards for frequent fliers, such as fast-track security and extra baggage. This expansion and partnership signify Fiji Airways’ commitment to providing passengers more travel options and seamless connectivity. It’s an exciting time for the airline and its customers as they continue to navigate and expand in the ever-evolving world of aviation.
Vietnam Airlines augments fleet with Airbus A320neo
Vietnam Airlines received the first of three new Airbus A320neos, expanding its fleet in time for the height of summer travel. Vietnam Airlines assigns the new aircraft to domestic routes, including Hanoi to Dalat, Hanoi to Phu Quoc, Ho Chi Minh City to Thanh Hoa, along with Ho Chi Minh City to Chu Lai. The addition of the three Airbus A320neo units reaffirms Vietnam Airlines’ commitment to fleet modernisation and operational enhancement to meet increasing travel demand, especially during the summer season. This is a timely decision on the part of the carrier in light of the ongoing global aircraft shortage caused by engine recalls. Adding these aircraft to Vietnam Airlines’ existing fleet adds nearly 40,000 seats for the season and a potential 300,000 seats throughout the second half of this year. Along with these new acquisitions from Airbus, Vietnam Airlines is set to receive new wide-body Boeing 787-10s in the near future. The Boeing 787-10 is the largest member of the Dreamliner family and the largest passenger aircraft in Vietnam Airlines’ current fleet. The Airbus difference The modern narrow-body Airbus A320neo features next-generation engines, significantly resulting in 16 percent fuel savings, 75 percent noise reduction, and 50 percent lower emissions compared to older aircraft. This Airbus A320neo has 182 seats and is configured in a two-class layout, with eight Business Class seats and 174 Economy Class seats, complemented by comfortable upholstery; 28- to 29-inch seat pitch and five-inch recline; and a wireless IFE system on top of other amenities. These cabin enhancements offer an improved passenger experience while retaining a strong commitment to environmental protection.
Airbus Helicopters Thailand and ATE sign academic cooperation
Airbus Helicopters in Thailand and the Thai Army Transportation Engineering School (ATE) (Kong Thabbok Upatham Changkol Kho So Tho Bo School) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to establish an academic cooperation aimed at providing internship opportunities in the field of aircraft mechanics. The MoU was signed on 11 June, by Alexandre Sanchez, Managing Director of Airbus Helicopters in Thailand, and Colonel Wanchai Prasanseang, Manager of ATE, at a ceremony held at the school in Nonthaburi. Under the agreement, Airbus Helicopters in Thailand will offer selected students short-term internships that combine theoretical and practical training, thereby enhancing their learning experience, and preparing them for careers as aircraft mechanics. This initiative aligns with the government’s education policies and aims to build a talent pipeline for the European aircraft manufacturer. The internship programme will also focus on developing students' English language skills through online and onsite activities and will facilitate the exchange of knowledge to foster continuous improvement and innovation, while increasing expertise in curriculum management. Additionally, ATE teachers will participate in the curriculum development of the programme and will have opportunities for professional development. Airbus Helicopters has been a crucial part of Thailand's aviation landscape since the 1980s, beginning with the Department of Royal Rainmaking and Agricultural Aviation's first order of the AS350 for utility and aerial surveillance purposes. Over the decades, helicopters manufactured by Airbus have become integral to various military and parapublic operations in Thailand with more than 70 helicopters in service in the country. In addition, Airbus helicopters’ footprint in Thailand includes a regional helicopter maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) facility located in Bangkok to serve its regional customers. In military applications, the Royal Thai Army operates a fleet of H125M helicopters for Armed Reconnaissance and H145/Lakota helicopters for Light Utility Operations. The Royal Thai Air Force operates a fleet of H225M helicopters for CSAR Combat Search and Rescue missions and H135 light-twin helicopters for Advanced Pilot Training. Additionally, the Royal Thai Navy utilises the H145M military version for Transport and Maritime Support Missions, while the Royal Thai Armed Forces operate multi-mission H155 helicopters." “This partnership with the Thai Army Transportation Engineering School underscores our dedication to providing hands-on, practical training that equips students with the essential skills needed for successful careers in aircraft mechanics. We are excited to support the development of these talented individuals and contribute to the growth of the aviation industry in Thailand,” said Alexandre Sanchez. Alexandre Sanchez, Managing Director of Airbus Helicopters in Thailand (centre-right), with Director of School Colonel Chaiyasit Piyamatya on behalf of Colonel Wanchai Prasanseang, Manager of ATE (centre-left), with the signed MoU documents during the ceremony held at the school
Emirates, IATA and Airbus launch an enhanced A350 type rating conversion course for pilots
From left to right: Capt Stéphan Labrucherie, Airbus Head of Flight Training Worldwide, Mikail Houari, President Africa & Middle East, Capt. Bader Al Marzooqi, Emirates’ Senior Vice President, Flight Training, Yann Reiner, IATA Head Training and Licensing and Nick Careen, IATA Senior Vic president, Operations, Safety and Security. Emirates, the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and Airbus have joined forces to deliver an enhanced Competency-Based Training and Assessment (CBTA) programme for the A350 type rating, as the airline prepares for the delivery of 65 A350s from mid-2024. An initial cohort of 256 pilots will be trained as part of the new course at Emirates’ Training college in Dubai starting from July 2024. The advanced pilot training programme uses the CBTA training methodology that combines IATA’s principles and documentation with Emirates’ operational expertise and resources, and Airbus’ CBTA training experience on the A350 that spans over 10 years. Driven by pilot competency and behaviour, the A350 CBTA programme utilises the proven CBTA training philosophy that allows instructors to assess the pilots training and seek immediate improvements in their performance. The programme will run in two phases and will include 20 days of simulator training and evaluation in 15 separate sessions. "With this programme, Emirates’ pilots receive in-house competency-based training with highly qualified instructors, equipping them with world-class capabilities to support the airline’s global operations. The tailored CBTA programme for the A350 supports the integration of the new aircraft to be inducted into our fleet, with 1,000 pilots set to complete the A350 type rating course. This latest initiative is part of Emirates’ commitment to deliver the highest standards of service and comfort while supporting our operational growth and expansion," said Capt. Bader Al Marzooqi, Emirates’ Senior Vice President, Flight Training. "Combining the expertise of Emirates, Airbus and IATA to design and deliver A350 type rating training is a unique opportunity. Our joint aim is to fully utilize the benefits of CBTA to qualify the pilots on the A350 in the most efficient and effective way possible. And by doing it together all three organizations will also gain valuable experience that can strengthen their other training activities,” said Nick Careen, IATA’s Senior Vice President for Operations, Safety and Security. "The A350 is a state-of-the-art aircraft, which requires equally advanced training solutions. Our partnership with IATA and Emirates ensures that Emirates’ pilots receive the most comprehensive and effective training, supporting the smooth entry- into- service of the A350 worldwide," said Capt Stéphan Labrucherie, Airbus Head of Flight Training Worldwide. The A350 type rating programme is one of the ways Emirates is prepping the entry of its new A350 into service. Along with pilot training, other parts of the airline are also working on preparing for the debut of A350 operations including Service Delivery and Engineering teams, among other departments.
Airbus secures THAI A320 cabin retrofit deal
Airbus has reached an agreement with Thai Airways International Public Company Limited (THAI) to retrofit its fleet of 20 A320ceo aircraft with reclining business class seats, marking the Airbus’ first-ever cabin retrofit for a single-aisle fleet in the Asia-Pacific region. This initiative aligns with THAI's commitment to enhance passenger comfort and experience, following the integration of its former subsidiary, Thai Smile Airways, into the parent company beginning of this year. Under this agreement, Airbus Services will oversee the installation of 12 business class seats on each A320ceo. Featuring a backrest that reclines up to eight inches, these seats will offer passengers a relaxed sitting position. The retrofitting project is slated to commence by the end of the year. Upon completion, the A320s will transition to a two-class configuration, comprising 12 business class and 144 economy seats, delivering an enhanced travel experience across all cabin classes. This transformation marks a change from the previous all-economy class configuration, which accommodated between 168 to 174 passengers. As of April 2024, THAI operates a modern, yet diverse Airbus fleet consisting of 20 A320s, three A330-300s, and 20 A350-900s. Chai Eamsiri, THAI Chief Executive Officer, said, “The acquisition of 20 A320 aircraft from THAI Smile Airways has benefited THAI’s route network, as well as strengthened fleet efficiency and enhanced our competitiveness in the market. The fleet will serve THAI’s domestic and regional operations aiming to provide customers with seamless and convenient flight connectivity. In addition, the retrofit of reclining business seats in the aircraft will offer passengers with more comfort while their travel experiences will be elevated and enhanced throughout their flight journey.” Cristina Aguilar, Senior Vice President Customer Services added, "We are thrilled to embark on this cabin retrofit project with Thai Airways. This agreement underscores our commitment to enhancing passenger comfort and delivering exceptional travel experiences. We look forward to seeing these upgraded A320ceo aircraft take to the skies, offering passengers unparalleled comfort with the new reclining business class seats."
Flyadeal orders 51 aircraft in landmark Airbus deal
flyadeal, one of the youngest and fastest growing low-cost airlines in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Middle East, announced a landmark order for 51 narrowbody Airbus aircraft to fuel the next phase of its expansion plans. The historic agreement for 12 Airbus A320neos and 39 bigger capacity A321neos was signed as part of a wider announcement by parent Saudia Group for a record 105 aircraft order – the largest in Saudi aviation history. The announcement was made on the opening day of the Future Aviation Forum being held in Riyadh this week. His Excellency Saleh Al-Jasser, Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Transport and Logistic Services and Chairman of Saudi Arabian Airlines Corporation, presided over the official signing by His Excellency Eng Ibrahim Al-Omar, Saudia Group Director General, and Benoît de Saint-Exupéry, Airbus Executive Vice-President Sales. flyadeal’s new fleet will support growth targets that will see a tripling in size from the current 32 all-Airbus A320neo and ceo variants to more than 100 aircraft by 2030, with its network reach rising sharply from 30 domestic and international destinations to over 100 within six years. Steven Greenway, flyadeal Chief Executive Officer, said: “Today’s historic announcement is a clear statement of intent of flyadeal’s goals as we prepare for the next phase of dynamic growth beyond 2026 when we begin taking deliveries of the new aircraft. “flyadeal has exciting plans with the new fleet, especially the A321neos which will give us the flexibility on high-demand routes and to slot-constrained airports by offering up to 240 seats that represent 30 per cent more capacity than our current 186-seat A320s. And of course these new generation, environmentally friendly aircraft will provide optimum fuel efficiency, very much in line with the Kingdom’s sustainability drive and Saudi Vision 2030 to build a dynamic aviation industry.” flyadeal’s current fleet comprises 21 A320neo and 11 A320ceo variants operating from three hubs in the Kingdom – Jeddah, Riyadh and Dammam. The airline is inducting on average one aircraft every month into the fleet from an existing order until the end of 2025.
Saudia Group and Airbus sign the largest aircraft deal in Saudi Aviation
Saudi Group announced the largest aircraft deal in Saudi aviation history with Airbus during the first day of the Future Aviation Forum 2024 held at the King Abdulaziz International Conference Center in Riyadh under the patronage of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud. This landmark agreement encompasses 105 confirmed aircraft and marks a significant moment not only for the Saudi aviation industry but also for the wider MENA region. The ceremony, in the presence of His Excellency the Minister of Transport and Logistics Services and Chairman of Saudi Arabian Airlines Corporation, Engr. Saleh Al-Jasser, was attended by dignitaries, country ambassadors, and key figures from the global aviation sector, as well as a multitude of media representatives and industry experts specializing in travel, aviation, and transportation. The deal, signed by H.E. Engr. Ibrahim Al Omar, the Director General of Saudia Group, and Benoît de Saint-Exupéry, Executive Vice President Sales of the Commercial Aircraft Business, includes A320neo and A321neo models. These aircraft will be distributed between Saudia and flyadeal, the group's low-cost carrier. Saudia will acquire 54 A321neo aircraft, while flyadeal will receive 12 A320neo and 39 A321neo aircraft. The new aircraft directly support Saudia Group's objectives to connect the world with the Kingdom, aligning with several key pillars of Saudi Vision 2030. These include the transportation and logistics objective to increase guests’ capacity to 330 million and expand destinations to 250 by 2030, and the tourism objective to attract 150 million visits by 2030. This is in addition to the Hajj and Umrah objective to contribute to the increase of Umrah pilgrim capacity to 30 million by 2030. These modern aircraft boast a spacious cabin with a stylish interior design. They're equipped with the latest amenities and technology, ensuring a truly differentiated travel experience that prioritizes Saudia guests’ comfort and privacy whilst delivering an exceptional service. Furthermore, the A320 family aircraft are fuel efficient as it emits 20% less fuel burn and carbon emissions compare to previous generation aircraft. To ensure the new aircraft are always in top condition, Saudia Technic, the group's Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) arm, will provide comprehensive maintenance services. This will prove even more crucial with the upcoming completion of the MRO Village at King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah, significantly increasing the company's service capacity. H.E. Engr. Saleh Al-Jasser, the Minister of Transport and Logistics Services, said:"The aviation sector is grateful for the tremendous support provided by the country’s leadership. This agreement is one of the enablers of achieving the objectives of the National Transport and Logistics Strategy. It will contribute to enhancing the operational performance of Saudia, increasing flights and seat capacity, and launching new destinations. Furthermore, it aims to connect the world to the Kingdom in line with the significant transformation witnessed by the aviation sector under Saudi Vision 2030, while also reaffirming our commitment to providing the best services that enhance the travel experience." H.E. Engr. Ibrahim Al-Omar, Director General of Saudia Group, said: "Saudia has ambitious operational objectives to meet growing demand. We are increasing flights and seat capacity across our existing 100+ destinations on four continents, with plans for further expansion. The progress of Saudi Vision 2030 is attracting more visits, tourists, entrepreneurs, and pilgrims each year. This motivated our decision to secure this significant deal, which will create jobs, increase local content, and contribute to the national economy." Benoît de Saint-Exupéry, Executive Vice President Sales of the Commercial Aircraft business said:“The new additions of the A320neo family aircraft will play a vital role in contributing to Saudi Arabia’ ambitious Vision 2030 plan. It will enable Saudia Group’s strategy to advance the Kingdom’s aviation capabilities while enabling both airlines to benefit from the A320neo Family’s exceptional efficiency, superior economics, highest level of passenger comfort as well as lower fuel-burn and emissions." The ceremony marked a new chapter for Saudia, unveiling their largest investment ever in guest experience. This includes a first-of-its-kind AI-powered “Travel Companion”, to support guests through trip planning to after sales support. Business class cabins will be transformed into luxurious, privacy-focused suites that convert into flat beds, progressively rolling out across both existing and new fleets. Guests can also stay connected with high speed in-flight connectivity and enjoy unparalleled entertainment with the highest-definition screens soon to be on board.
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