A £1bn deal by Airbus for 15 planes has been declared 'a clear signal' of the strong demand for the company's A320.

AWAS, the Dublin-based leading global aircraft leasing company, has announced an order for 12 A320ceo and three A321ceo aircraft.

It is worth around £1bn on current prices and is another boost to the wing manufacturing plant at Broughton.

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John Leahy, Airbus Chief Operating Officer, Customers, said: "We are pleased to see leading lessor AWAS come back for more of our best-selling A320 Family aircraft.

"This is a clear signal of the continuing strong demand for our modern, fuel-efficient A320 Family which day in, day out, delivers profitability to its owners and a great travel experience to the passengers.”

Dave Siegel, AWAS CEO said: "AWAS is pleased to continue our long-term relationship with Airbus in reaching this deal for the order of 15 A320 CEO Family aircraft which will include a mix of both A321 and A320 aircraft.

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"AWAS is bullish on the A320 and A321 CEO family as its value proposition to airlines remains strong which is evident in the continued global demand for Airbus single aisle aircraft.

"AWAS is pleased to be able to offer our customers new production CEOs in support of their fleet plans.”

Including this latest purchase agreement, AWAS’ cumulative orders to date for A320 Family aircraft have reached a total of 95.