AIRBUS landed a £6.5bn order for 100 jets from a Scandinavian airline.
The plane maker, which employs 6,000 people at its Broughton wing-making plant, signed the deal with Norwegian, one of the largest low-cost carriers in Europe.
Norwegian (the brand name of Norwegian Air Shuttle AS) ordered 100 of the aerospace giant’s A320neo fuel-saving planes, following a commitment signed in January.
The new aircraft will feature a single class cabin layout, seating about 180 passengers, supporting the carrier’s growth and modernisation strategy.
“We are very pleased to be an Airbus customer and look forward to a close cooperation with a world-leading aircraft manufacturer,” said Norwegian’s chief executive officer, Bjorn Kjos.
“This order gives us an opportunity to secure and invest in the company’s future.
“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.”
Airbus chief operating officer John Leahy added: “We are very pleased to welcome Norwegian as an all-new Airbus customer.
“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% reduction in fuel burn and emissions.”
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.
