Dublin-based SMBC Aviation Capital has placed an order for an additional 60 A320neo Family aircraft, bringing their total orders to nearly 340 directly from Airbus.
A press release announcing the order says this ensures a continuous delivery stream for SMBC Aviation Capital and strengthens their partnership with Airbus on the A320neo family programme.
The A320neo family’s competitive seat mile cost allows airlines to expand their networks using wide-body cabin products on longer-haul routes that were not previously possible with single-aisle jetliners.
SMBC Aviation Capital CEO, Peter Barrett, said: “This transaction is further testament of sustained global demand for technologically advanced, fuel-efficient aircraft, and comes amidst the continuing strong recovery in air travel worldwide. With sustainability and operational efficiency remaining key priorities for our customers, we anticipate even greater demand for aircraft such as the A320neo and the A321neo in the years ahead. We look forward to strengthening our valued partnership with Airbus as we help our customers navigate these priorities.”
Christian Scherer, Chief Commercial Officer and Head of Airbus International said: SMBC Aviation Capital’s latest decision to reinvest for the long term in the A320neo Family shows a great confidence and commitment to what is, and is continuing to be, the most successful aircraft programme ever,”
The A320neo Family incorporates technologies such as new generation engines, sharklets, and cabin efficiency features, delivering 20pc fuel savings by 2020. With 6,709 orders from 100 customers since its launch in 2010 and 4,349 orders outstanding, the A321neo holds a significant market share against the 4,031 orders on the books of Boeing for the B737 MAX and 551 outstanding orders for the B737NG.
As of October 2023, 16,159 Boeing 737s have been ordered and 11,569 delivered, against 16,280 of the A320 family ordered (including the A320ceo and A321ceo) and 8,554 delivered, leaving a backlog of 6,726.
