Air France-KLM Paces an Order for 100 A320neo and 4 A350F

Air France-KLM orders 100 Airbus A320neo family aircraft - with purchase rights for an additional 60 aircraft to renew the fleets of KLM and Transavia. It has also signed a letter of intent to purchase 4 A350F with purchase rights for four additional aircraft to increase cargo capacity at Air France.

The first order covers Airbus A320neo and Airbus A321neo aircraft and initial deliveries are expected in the second half of 2023. The group said these aircraft would operate medium-haul routes in Europe, notably from Amsterdam-Schiphol - KLM's global hub and Transavia Netherlands' main base and from Paris-Orly, Transavia France's main base.

Benjamin Smith, CEO of the Air France-KLM Group, said: "These evolutionary orders will position our Group airlines on the path to improved performance while accelerating our decarbonization trajectory. This is a major step forward for KLM, Transavia and Air France, which will operate the best aircraft available for their network needs. The outstanding performances of the A320neo family and of the A350F Full-Freighter, which are quieter, more fuel-efficient and more cost-effective aircraft, make them the best choices for the long-term growth of our fleet. They will be instrumental in reaching our ambitious targets, including zero net CO2 emissions by 2050."

"We are honored with Air France-KLM Group's foresight, after an in-depth evaluation, to acquire the latest generation Airbus A320neo-family aircraft and A350F to modernize its European medium, short-haul, and cargo fleets," said Airbus chief commercial officer Christian Scherer of the latest deal. "This milestone decision shows again that an aircraft's value lies primarily in performance, reliability, fuel efficiency, and reduced CO2 emissions, all criteria in which the Airbus product line excels."

 Source " Aviation Voice "