LAN Airlines, one of Latin America’s leading passenger and cargo airlines, announced today its intention to order 50 new eco-efficient Airbus A320 Family aircraft. The Memorandum of Understanding – signed today at the Farnborough International Airshow – will be the largest single airline order for Airbus in Latin America and brings LAN’s total Airbus orders to 152 aircraft.

The commitment includes 10 A321s, a new aircraft type for LAN. The airline’s request for incremental A320 Family aircraft is part of LAN’s growth strategy for Latin America. The aircraft will serve as new and replacement aircraft for both existing and new routes.

Ignacio Cueto, LAN Airlines’ Chief Operating Officer, commented: “We confirm our commitment to the development of commercial aviation in Latin America, incorporating the best technology and offering our customers one of the world’s most modern fleets. We continue investing in order to contribute to the economic growth and social development of the countries in the region.”

“The LAN and Airbus partnership in Latin America has really prospered in the last 12 years. We are convinced that our benchmark aircraft will further advance LAN’s leadership position in the region,” said John Leahy, Airbus Chief Operating Officer, Customers. “We appreciate LAN’s strong and clear vote of confidence in Airbus and look forward to many more years of continued collaboration.

LAN placed a firm order for 30 single-aisle Airbus A320 Family aircraft in December 2009. The airline currently operates 58 Airbus aircraft.

Source: Airbus