Asiana Airlines of South Korea has become a new customer for the A380 following the signature of a firm order for six aircraft. Deliveries are scheduled to begin in 2014 and the airline plans to operate the aircraft with a premium layout on key routes to Europe and the US. The carrier will make an engine selection for its A380 fleet in the near future.

“With the A380 Asiana will be able to take its award-winning service to a new level, offering the very highest standards of comfort in the sky,” said Yoon Young-Doo, President and CEO, Asiana Airlines. “At the same time, the significantly reduced operating costs and fuel efficiencies afforded by the aircraft will enable us to enhance our productivity and reduce our carbon footprint. This is in line with our policy to operate one of the most modern and environmentally-friendly fleets in the world.”

“We are extremely pleased to welcome Asiana Airlines as the latest world class customer for the A380,” said John Leahy, Chief Operating Officer Customers, Airbus. “The order is a further endorsement of the A380 as the most efficient tool to meet demand on the world’s most heavily travelled routes, especially out of the fast-growing Asia-Pacific region. With the A380 in its fleet Asiana will be able to increase its share of international traffic and reinforce its well-deserved status as one of the world’s premier carriers.”

Since entering service in 2007 the eco-efficient A380 has proven itself to be a game changer in terms of performance, efficiency and respect for the environment, consuming less than three litres of fuel per passenger per 100 kilometres. Meanwhile, the spacious, quiet cabin and smooth flight profile have made the aircraft a firm favourite with passengers. This has resulted in higher than average load factors and increased profitability on A380 flights, providing airlines with a key competitive advantage wherever they operate the type.

Typically seating 525 passengers in a three class layout, the A380 is capable of flying 8,300 nautical miles / 15,300 kilometres non-stop, enabling direct service from Seoul to Europe and the US. Following today’s announcement, total firm orders for the aircraft stand at 240 from 18 customers worldwide.

Source: Airbus
Photo: Rob Vogelaar, ZAPP