New Airbus customer in Norway

8 June 2012

Norwegian, one of the largest low cost carriers in Europe, has firmed up its order for 100 A320neo aircraft with Airbus. This follows a commitment signed in January. The order makes Norwegian a new Airbus customer, and as well, one of the biggest A320neo customers.   Norwegian (the brand name of Norwegian Air Shuttle AS) operates a network across Europe into North Africa and the Middle East, and is rapidly expanding its low cost operations. The new aircraft will feature a single class cabin layout, seating approximately 180 passengers. The A320neo will support the carrier’s growth and modernization strategy.   “We are very pleased to be an Airbus customer and look forward to a close cooperation with a world-leading aircraft manufacturer. This order gives us an opportunity to secure and invest in the company’s future,” said Norwegian’s CEO Bjørn Kjos. “Brand new, fuel-efficient aircraft are necessary for us to continue to grow. From an environmental perspective, we know that Airbus is continuously working on measures to reduce emissions, making new aircraft a win-win for both the environment, our passengers and for us as a company,” Kjos said.   “We are very pleased to welcome Norwegian as an all-new Airbus customer”, said John Leahy, Airbus Chief Operating Officer, Customers. “The A320neo sets new industry standards for eco-efficiency and passenger appeal. Norwegian will become among the first airlines in Scandinavia to benefit from the A320neo’s increased capabilities, including a 15 percent reduction in fuel burn and emissions” said John Leahy.   The A320neo is a new engine option for the A320 Family entering into service from 2015 and incorporates latest generation engines and large “Sharklet” wing tip devices, which together will deliver 15 percent in fuel savings. The reduction in fuel burn is equivalent to 1.4 million litres of fuel – the consumption of 1,000 mid size cars, saving 3,600 tonnes of C02 per aircraft per year. The A320neo NOx emissions are 50% below CAEP/6, and this aircraft also has a considerably smaller noise footprint.    Over 8,400 A320 Family aircraft have been ordered and more than 5,100 delivered to about 350 customers and operators worldwide reaffirming its position as the world’s best-selling single-aisle aircraft Family. The A320neo has over 95 percent airframe commonality making it an easy fit into existing fleets while offering up to 500 nautical miles (950 kilometres) more range or two tonnes more payload at a given range.

Source and image: Airbus