Transaero Airlines, Russia’s second largest airline, signed a Letter of Intent with Airbus for 20 A330 aircraft (8 A330ceo and 12 A330neo). This agreement  makes Transaero an important launch customer and the first European airline to commit to the A330neo. The A330s will allow Transaero to continue the massive fleet modernization program and to boost its medium and long-haul domestic and international network.

“Maintaining the balance between proven technologies and new fuel efficiency and passenger comfort solutions, the A330neo will enable a smooth integration into Transaero’s fleet and represent an attractive investment profile for our financial partners” said Alexander Krinichanskiy, Executive Director of Transaero.

“This significant order from Transaero proves that both the A330ceo and the A330neo offer airlines unmatched efficiency, working in tandem to improve airline profitability and passenger comfort. We are delighted that a leading European airline has selected both the A330neo and A330ceo,” said John Leahy, Airbus Chief Operating Officer, Customers.

Transaero Airlines launched services in November 1991, and currently serves more than  200 routes all over the world. Transaero will begin operating its first Airbus aircraft (A321) in 2015. In 2011 Transaero Airlines signed a contact with Airbus for eight A320neo and in 2012 became the first Russian customer for the A380, ordering four aircraft, the first of which will enter into service at the end of 2015.

The A330-800neo and the A330-900neo are two new members of the Airbus Widebody Family launched in July 2014 with first deliveries scheduled to start in Q4 2017. The A330neo incorporates latest generation Rolls-Royce Trent 7000 engines, aerodynamic enhancements and new cabin features. Benefitting from the unbeatable economics, versatility and high reliability of the A330, the A330neo reduces fuel consumption by 14% per seat, making it the most cost efficient, medium range Widebody aircraft on the market. In addition to greater fuel savings, A330neo operators will also benefit from a range increase of up to 400 nautical miles and all the operational commonality advantages of the Airbus Family.