The 100th A320 Family aircraft assembled at Airbus’ A320 Family Final Assembly Line China (FALC) was handed over today to Air China. This delivery from the Airbus Tianjin Delivery Centre comes some three years after the first aircraft was delivered on 22nd June, 2009.

The new A320, powered by IAE V2500 engines, is configured in a typical two class layout with eight business class and 150 economy class seats. The aircraft will be deployed on domestic routes linking Shanghai to other cities in China. Air China now operates 93 A320 Family aircraft, one of the biggest A320 Family fleets in China.

“We are delighted to have delivered the 100th A320 assembled in Tianjin to Air China today. The airline already operates a significant Airbus fleet and is a most valued and long-term strategic customer”, said John Leahy, Airbus Chief Operating Officer Customers. “We will continue to reward the trust our loyal customers place in our aircraft, by delivering the best quality product and support to enable the highest levels of operational performance.”

On 31st August, visiting German Chancellor Angela Merkel and Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao presided over a grand gathering of some 1,000 people in Tianjin to celebrate the completion of the 100th A320 Family aircraft assembled at the Airbus A320 Family Final Assembly Line China (FALC).

To date, more than 700 Airbus A320 Family aircraft are in service in China. 11 Chinese customers have so far taken deliveries from the Airbus Tianjin Delivery Centre.