Eurofly selects new Airbus A350 - adds more A330-200s to its fleet

Eurofly has signed a Letter of Intent with Airbus for three A350-800 aircraft and is leasing two additional A330-200s, to reinforce its long haul fleet and to open up new long haul destinations. Eurofly’s decision brings the number of commitments for the new A350 to 143, from ten customers.

The A350s, to be delivered from 2013, will be used by the Italian airline to pioneer more long haul routes. Eurofly will receive the additional A330-200s, powered by Pratt & Whitney PW4000 engines, starting in late 2006.

Augusto Angioletti, CEO of Eurofly, commented on the decision by saying: "The acquisition of the new Airbus aircraft allows us to continue to benefit from the advantages of the most modern and technologically innovative fleet in the industry. We believe that with these Airbus aircraft we will continue to make further progress, with particular attention to operating costs, technological innovation and passenger comfort."

Airbus President and CEO Gustav Humbert said: "Eurofly’s decision is another clear sign from the market that the A350 is what airlines are looking for. Its decision to add further A330-200s to its fleet also demonstrates the value of the synergy between these two Airbus models. We believe that with this modern and efficient fleet, Eurofly, a very dynamic and fast growing carrier, is well-placed to continue its forward-looking development."

The A350 and A330 aircraft will allow Eurofly to make considerable savings in operational and maintenance costs. The A330 is already renowned for being the most efficient aircraft in its class, combining the lowest operating costs with the most spacious cabin of any widebody aircraft in its category. The Airbus A350 will continue this family tradition: it carries 30 more passengers, eight per cent more economically per seat, and flies 550 km further than its closest competitor. With 60 percent advanced weight-saving materials and new generation engines, the A350 offers unbeatable fuel efficiency against today’s backdrop of fuel price increases.

Already an A330 customer, Eurofly will profit from valuable savings in operation, maintenance and training. Thanks to the same type rating, A330 pilots can fly the A350 with no additional training. The A350 also effectively complements Eurofly’s A320 family thanks to the unique benefits of Airbus’ operational commonality between all fly-by-wire models.

Eurofly's 12 aircraft strong fleet already includes one Airbus ACJ, eight A320 and three A330 aircraft. Its repeat commitment to A330 aircraft highlights the continuing strong demand for the A330/A340 aircraft family, the leader in point-to-point services.

Airbus is an EADS joint company with BAE Systems.

More...