Third order from carrier for all-new Airbus mid-size widebody

Singapore Airlines (SIA) has announced that it will purchase up to 50 more A350 XWB aircraft. The agreement covers a firm order for 30 more A350-900s plus options for a further 20 aircraft. The deal allows for the airline to select either the baseline A350-900 or the larger A350-1000 when exercising the options.

The latest agreement will represent the third order from Singapore Airlines for the A350 XWB. Upon confirmation, it will see the airline’s total firm orders for the all-new aircraft increase to 70, excluding options. The aircraft will be used by the airline on both medium and long haul routes.

“The latest announcement from Singapore Airlines is another major endorsement for the A350 XWB,” said John Leahy, Chief Operating Officer, Customers, Airbus. “As we move closer to first flight, demand for the A350 XWB continues to grow, especially for the larger models. Airbus is set to bring a step-change to the mid-size widebody market and we are proud to have Singapore Airlines on board in such a big way.”

The A350 XWB (Xtra Wide-Body) is an all-new mid-size long range product line comprising three versions and seating between 270 and 350 passengers in typical three-class layouts. The aircraft will bring new levels of efficiency to the mid-size market, using 25 per cent less fuel than existing aircraft in this size category and providing an equivalent reduction in CO2 emissions.

Assembly of the first A350 XWB to fly is complete, with an extensive flight test programme due to begin around mid-2013. Entry into commercial service of the first customer aircraft is scheduled for the second half of 2014.

To date Airbus has recorded 616 firm orders for the A350 XWB from 34 customers worldwide.

Airbus press release