Hainan Airlines orders eight Airbus A319s

Hainan Airlines has signed a contract with Airbus for eight A319s for fleet optimization, becoming a new customer of Airbus. The aircraft will be mainly deployed on medium- and short-haul routes, with operational bases in Beijing, Xi’an and Haikou. Introduction of the aircraft is expected to significantly increase the company’s competitiveness in the medium- and short-haul market. The aircraft are scheduled for delivery from 2005 to 2007.

Hainan Airlines will benefit from the economics and passenger comfort of the A319, as well as Airbus’ unique commonality concept. The A319 will play a strategic role in the airline’s strategic development.

"We are extremely happy to see that the fast-growing Hainan Airlines has become a new customer of Airbus, which marks a significant breakthrough of our business in China," said Airbus President and CEO Noël Forgeard. "Hainan Airlines has established a good reputation for quality service for its passengers. We are confident that the features of the new A319s will give further impetus to the development of the carrier."

The A319 is a member of the A320 Family, which consists of the A318, A319, A320 and A321, the world's fastest selling single-aisle family. The A320 Family features the most modern design with the widest and most comfortable cabin in its class. More than 3,250 Airbus A320 Family aircraft have been ordered to date, of which over 2,250 have been delivered. The Airbus A320 Family has more than 175 customers and operators to its credit.

Founded in 1993, Hainan Airlines is the fourth largest airline group in China, with more than 100 aircraft operating on over 500 domestic and regional routes.

Airbus is an EADS joint Company with BAE Systems.


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