Air Algérie orders Airbus A330-200 for fleet renewal

Air Algérie has signed a contract with Airbus for the purchase of five widebody twin-engined A330-200s to renew its current widebody fleet. Delivery of the aircraft will begin in January 2005. The transaction is eligible for financial support from European Export Credit Agencies.

In Air Algérie’s standard layout, the A330-200 will offer a comfortable three class configuration, of up to 302 seats in a single-class layout. The A330-200 has the most spacious cabin of any widebody jet in its category, creating a more enjoyable seating arrangement for passengers. In addition state-of-the art systems help to provide a comfortable atmosphere that reflects the commitment to passenger comfort found in all Airbus aircraft.

Making the most of the A330-200's impressive versatility, Air Algérie will operate the aircraft on its international routes network. Airbus' A330-200 is renowned for being the most efficient aircraft in its class, combining lower operating costs with highly efficient cargo capabilities that enhance airline profitability through freight operations.

"The A330-200 is an ideal aircraft for Air Algérie’s international operations both in terms of the current need for growth and future development in an increasingly competitive environment," said Mohamed Tayeb Benouis, President and CEO of Air Algérie. "It offers the highest standards of technology available today while providing us with the ability to fully maximise our revenue-generating potential."

Noël Forgeard, Airbus President and Chief Executive Officer, said that "this significant mark of confidence from Air Algérie is a new start for developing further fruitful relationship, in a partnership spirit, between Airbus and Air Algérie."

Air Algérie’s selection of the A330 further reinforces the remarkable success of the A330/A340 Family as the preferred medium to long-range aircraft among airlines worldwide. The A330/A340 Family has booked 815 total orders from more than 60 customers to date.

A leading aircraft manufacturer with the most modern and comprehensive product line on the market, Airbus is a global company with design and manufacturing facilities in France, Germany, the UK, and Spain as well as subsidiaries in the US, China and Japan. Headquartered in Toulouse, France, Airbus is an EADS joint Company with BAE Systems.

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