Grupo Marsans expands its Airbus long haul fleet with purchase of up to 22 A330s

Grupo Marsans, the largest tourism and transport group in Spain, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Airbus in Farnborough for the purchase of 12 Airbus A330-200 aircraft, plus 10 options. The aircraft will be delivered between 2008 and 2009.

The new A330 aircraft will be used for the Grupo Marsans' subsidiaries to replace their ageing fleet of 747-200s and expand their long-haul networks. An engine selection has not yet been made.

Gonzalo Pascual, President of Grupo Marsans, explained: "This purchase is an important step for Grupo Marsans and demonstrates our commitment to developing and enhancing our group's market position and our long haul network, with the most efficient aircraft in its class. It perfectly fits our operations and will support our sustained growth in Latin America."

Christian Streiff, Airbus President and CEO, said: "This agreement confirms Grupo Marsans' confidence in Airbus' modern family of aircraft. The A330-200 is proving again that it is a perfect answer to customers that require an economic plane, with the right range and seat capacity combination, whilst offering the highest standards of comfort to their passengers. We are proud to assist the Grupo Marsans in its long haul fleet expansion."

The A330 models' passenger revenue generating power, combined with low operating costs and significant cargo capabilities, offers enhanced airline profitability. The aircraft are better placed to match market requirements in terms of range and efficiency, whilst offering high levels of technology in terms of structure, aerodynamics and systems. The A330 also offers the most spacious cabin of any wide-body aircraft in its category.

More than 1,000 A330/A340/A350 Family aircraft are in operation with over 80 operators.

Airbus is an EADS joint Company with BAE Systems.

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